The search for illegal miners trapped in an abandoned mine shaft in Roodepoort is set to resume on Monday morning. This follows a temporary suspension of the rescue operations on Sunday evening due to safety concerns.
Emergency teams, including the City of Joburg’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue Unit, and Mine Rescue Services (MRS), were deployed to the disused Rand Lease Mineshaft in Florida, Roodepoort on Saturday. Their response was triggered by the desperate cries of the trapped zama zamas echoing from underground.
Challenges Facing the Rescue Mission
Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, confirmed that the rescue operations were halted on Sunday night to prevent further risks to the rescue teams.
“We will be resuming Monday morning to continue with our search and rescue operations in this area,” said Mulaudzi.
City of Joburg Public Safety MMC, Mgcini Tshwaku, highlighted the complexity of the mission, emphasizing that safety remains a top priority.
“The operation is complex and challenging, requiring careful planning and coordination to ensure the safety of all involved. The team utilises specialised techniques to navigate the hazardous terrain and locate the miners,” Tshwaku explained.
The incident in Roodepoort once again highlights the dangers of illegal mining in South Africa, where desperate individuals risk their lives in abandoned mine shafts.
Illegal Mining: A Growing Crisis in South Africa
Illegal mining remains a serious concern in South Africa, with the government estimating losses of over R70 billion annually in gold theft alone. Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has repeatedly called for urgent intervention, revealing that South Africa has over 6,000 derelict mines, many of which are exploited by illegal miners.
Mantashe has urged for stronger action against illegal mining, stating that the activity fuels organized crime and poses significant economic and safety threats.
The Infamous Stilfontein Tiger Case
The issue of illegal mining has also been linked to criminal networks operating underground. In January, James Tshoaeli, known as “Tiger”, made headlines after he evaded arrest following a dramatic rescue mission at the Buffelsfontein gold mine in Stilfontein, North West.
Although Tiger was reportedly detained, he was never booked into a police station or admitted to a hospital, raising suspicions of corruption and underground criminal dealings within the illegal miners network.
North West Acting Police Commissioner Patrick Asaneng has since vowed to unmask the key figures behind illegal mining and take decisive action.
The Way Forward
With illegal mining escalating, the South African government faces increasing pressure to tighten security at abandoned mines, enforce stricter penalties, and improve surveillance to curb the ongoing crisis.
Meanwhile, the rescue efforts in Roodepoort continue, bringing hope that the trapped illegal miners may be found and safely brought to the surface.
Also Read: ‘No Escape’: Stilfontein Illegal Miners Heavily Guarded in Isolated Ward Amid Police Crackdown
