Tuesday, 21 Oct 2025
  • Calculators
  • My Feed
  • My Interests
  • My Saves
SUBSCRIBE
gauteng-news-logo-2025 gauteng-news-logo-2025
  • Lifestyle
  • Entertainment
    Entertainment
    Movie reviews, TV scoops, viral moments — your daily dose of fun and pop culture.
    Show More
    Top News
    child to read
    Teaching Your Child to Read: 10 Fun and Effcetive Strategies
    May 22, 2024
    How to Cancel Your TV License: Step-by-Step Guide
    8 Easy Steps To Follow On How To Cancel Your TV License In South Africa
    July 3, 2024
    Road to Amapiano Festival
    The Road to Amapiano Festival Experience: A Celebration of South African Music and Culture
    August 22, 2024
    Latest News
    Johannesburg Pride 2025: Tickets, Dates & Event Info
    October 15, 2025
    Celebrity News: Jojo Robinson Undergoes Surgery to Reduce ‘Thunder Thighs’
    October 15, 2025
    Brazil Fest 2025: Where Culture Meets Car Culture
    October 15, 2025
    Celebrity News: SARS Auctions MaMkhize’s Lambo, Art, and Luxury Items
    October 14, 2025
  • Sports
    Sports
    Comprehensive coverage of all your favourite sports — from football to athletics.
    Show More
    Top News
    africa cup of nations semi finals
    Africa Cup of Nations: AFCON 2024 Semifinals Fixtures to Watch
    February 7, 2024
    Soweto Derby
    The Soweto Derby – The Ultimate Soccer Showdown
    November 9, 2023
    Bafana Bafana Celebrating Semi-finals Qualification
    Nigeria vs South Africa LIVE: AFCON Semifinals H2H, Predictions
    February 8, 2024
    Latest News
    FIFA World Cup 2026: Costs for South African Fans Explained
    October 20, 2025
    Kaizer Chiefs Hit Hard by Injury Crisis — 10 Players Out
    October 20, 2025
    Safa Targets Top Salaries in Bid to Avoid Bankruptcy
    October 20, 2025
    Miguel Cardoso Hails Sundowns Tactical Brilliance After Crushing Remo Stars 5-1
    October 20, 2025
  • Finance
    Finance
    Smart money moves, personal finance tips, and SA’s financial pulse.
    Show More
    Top News
    how to register your car on bolt
    Super Quick Guide on How to Register Your Car on Bolt or Uber in 2024
    February 29, 2024
    Capitec Bank
    How To Download the Capitec App in 2024
    March 5, 2024
    National Minimum Wage
    Unpacking The Impact Of the National Minimum Wage Increase In 2024
    February 7, 2024
    Latest News
    Warning: Taxi Operators Hijacking Motorists in Extortion Scheme
    October 15, 2025
    Ex-Bank Worker Accused of Using Client Info for Fake Loan Applications
    September 25, 2025
    Repo Rate Remains Unchanged, Meeting Economist Expectations
    September 19, 2025
    Repo Rate Cut: A Welcome Move Due to Stable Rand and Improved Economic Outlook
    September 8, 2025
  • Politics
    Politics
    Stay informed with the latest political news and updates from South Africa and around the globe. This category dives deep into government policies, elections, political…
    Show More
    Top News
    The Political Parties of South Africa: A Guide for the Upcoming Elections
    The Political Parties of South Africa: A Guide for the Upcoming Elections
    February 20, 2024
    South African Political Rallies
    South African Political Rallies: Parties, Issues, and Election Hype
    February 27, 2024
    African National Congress
    African National Congress (ANC): From Liberation Movement to Governing Party in South Africa
    February 16, 2024
    Latest News
    Good-Bosa-Rise Mzansi Merger: What It Means for SA’s 2026 Coalition Politics
    October 6, 2025
    2026 Local Government Elections: IEC Registers 13 New Political Parties in Just One Month
    August 27, 2025
    Local Government Elections Set to Take Place Between November 2026 and January 2027
    August 27, 2025
    DA Claims US Rejected Ramaphosa’s Special Envoy Mcebisi Jonas
    July 16, 2025
  • Motoring
    Motoring
    Explore everything about cars in this dedicated category! From the latest vehicle launches and expert reviews to maintenance tips, industry news, and car-buying advice, we’ve…
    Show More
    Top News
    Top 10 Driving Habits That Are Killing Your Car
    Top 10 Driving Habits That Are Killing Your Car
    August 22, 2024
    GridCars Partners with Eskom to Lead the Charge in South Africa's EV Rollout
    GridCars Partners with Eskom to Lead the Charge in South Africa’s EV Rollout
    September 18, 2024
    Nissan Navara Gears Up to Challenge Hilux, Ranger, and D-Max Amid Tough Bakkie Market
    October 15, 2024
    Latest News
    Drinking and Driving in South Africa: How Many Drinks Are Legally Allowed?
    October 20, 2025
    Petrol Price Relief on the Horizon as Global Oil Prices Slide
    October 20, 2025
    Cost to Drive From Joburg to Durban at R21/Litre — What Road-Trippers Can Expect to Pay
    October 17, 2025
    What to Know About Free Temporary Driving Licences
    October 17, 2025
  • Tech
    Tech
    Gadgets, apps, trends, and tips — decoding tech for the everyday reader.
    Show More
    Top News
    Capitec Bank
    How To Download the Capitec App in 2024
    March 5, 2024
    AI Expo Africa
    AI Expo Africa: A Brilliant Technological Showcase
    November 3, 2023
    Top South African YouTube Channels
    Top South African YouTube Channels to Subscribe To
    March 26, 2024
    Latest News
    WhatsApp to Introduce Ads: What You Need to Know About the Upcoming Change
    June 20, 2025
    Donald Trump Unveils New Gold Smartphone ‘Made Entirely in the US’
    June 18, 2025
    Why Does Mobile Data Expire in South Africa? MPs Demand Answers from Network Providers
    June 17, 2025
    South Africans Should Say Goodbye to Bank Cards: Embrace Virtual Cards and Tap-to-Pay Wallets
    June 10, 2025
  • Travel & Leisure
  • Weather
  • Tenders
  • Zodiac Signs
  • Jobs
  • Government Jobs
  • Private Sector Jobs
  • Bursary
  • Internships
  • NSFAS
  • Lotto
  • Daily Lotto
  • Lottery
  • Lotto Plus 1
  • Lotto Plus 2
  • Lotto Tools
Breaking News
Gauteng Load Reduction Schedule: 20 – 27 October 2025
SA Eyes Gas and Nuclear Power in Major Electricity Shift Announces Ramokgopa
City Power to Audit Meters in Roodepoort from October 20–28
Tsakane News: Police Officer Murdered, Firearm Stolen in Tsakane Attack
75 Suspects Arrested in Gauteng Festive Season Operation
Font ResizerAa
Gauteng.NewsGauteng.News
Search
  • Home
  • Lifestyle
    • Attractions & Experiences
    • Leisure
    • Gauteng Eats
    • GP Loves Kids
  • Motoring
  • Finance
    • Currency Conversion
  • Jobs
    • Government Jobs
    • Private Sector Jobs
  • Sports
    • Soccer
    • Rugby
    • Netball
    • Cricket
  • Entertainment
  • Politics
    • Local Politics
    • International Politics
  • Tech
  • Grants
    • SASSA
    • NSFAS
    • UIF
    • Business Grants
  • Lotto
    • Daily Lotto
    • Lotto Plus 1
    • Lotto Plus 2
    • Powerball
  • Weather
Have an existing account? Sign In
Follow US
© 2025 Gauteng.News . All Rights Reserved.

Site Navigation: Home » News

News

Over 50 Bodies Recovered from Disused Stilfontein Mine Amid Zama Zama Rescue Operation

Last updated: January 15, 2025 7:47 am
Divinity Mokgwatshane
525 Views
3 Min Read
Share
Over 50 Bodies Recovered from Disused Stilfontein Mine Amid Zama Zama Rescue Operation
EWN
SHARE

Bodies and Emaciated Miners Rescued in Stilfontein Mine: A Tragic Update on South Africa’s Illegal Mining Crisis

In a harrowing turn of events, more than 50 bodies have been recovered from a disused Stilfontein mine, North West Province, as the South African government intensifies efforts to rescue trapped miners. The tragic scene unfolded as rescue operations, spearheaded by Mines Rescue Services, were carried out following weeks of desperate attempts to reach the hundreds of zama zamas (illegal miners) who have been trapped underground.

Contents
  • Bodies and Emaciated Miners Rescued in Stilfontein Mine: A Tragic Update on South Africa’s Illegal Mining Crisis
  • A Gruesome Reality
  • Conditions in the Mine
  • Hope Amid the Tragedy
  • Protests and Criticism
  • The Ongoing Illegal Mining Crisis
  • Rescue Operations Continue

A Gruesome Reality

Since the onset of the operation, over 50 frail and emaciated zama zamas have been rescued, but the grim reality of this mining crisis has become starkly evident with the recovery of several bodies. Police and forensic workers have been on-site, using heavy equipment to extract survivors and retrieve those lost to the underground conditions.

Conditions in the Mine

Activists estimate that over 400 to 800 miners remain trapped in the depths of the abandoned mine, with only limited access to food, water, and medical aid. The rescue operation began after a community member, Zinzi Tom, brought a court action to compel the state to intervene. The High Court’s directive resulted in the finalization of a service-level agreement, which enabled Mines Rescue Services to deploy their rescue team and equipment.

The Guardian

Hope Amid the Tragedy

Tragically, some of the survivors reported seeing friends and relatives just weeks ago, but they have since vanished. With conditions rapidly deteriorating underground, hopes for the safe recovery of everyone still trapped remain slim. The South African government’s prolonged inaction and the associated dangers have drawn sharp criticism from local communities and civil society organizations.

Protests and Criticism

Protests erupted at the rescue site, with community leaders accusing the state of prioritizing law enforcement over human lives. Activists likened the situation to the Marikana massacre, highlighting a pattern of neglect towards the marginalized zama zama miners.

BBC

The Ongoing Illegal Mining Crisis

Illegal mining in South Africa has surged due to the exhaustion of industrial mines and the control of abandoned shafts by criminal syndicates. The Stilfontein mine has become one of many hotspots where zama zamas—estimated at around 30,000—risk their lives daily to earn a livelihood. This tragedy underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address illegal mining and prevent further loss of life.

Rescue Operations Continue

As the rescue mission continues, the nation holds its breath, hoping for the safe return of those still trapped, while mourning those who have been lost.

Also read: Stilfontein ‘Massacre’: Government Accused of Murdering Illegal Miners

TAGGED:Illegal Goldmine Recoveryillegal minersIllegal MiningIllegal Mining CrisisIllegal mining South AfricaMarikana massacreMining CrisisMining Crisis in South AfricaMining TragedyMining Tragedy in North WestRescue operationSouth Africa Rescue OperationSouth African Illegal MiningStilfonteinStilfontein gold mineStilfontein gold minesStilfontein illegal minersStilfontein Illegal MiningStilfontein MassacreStilfontein Mine BodiesStilfontein Mine DisasterStilfontein Mine RescueStilfontein Zama ZamasZama zamazama zamasZama Zamas South AfricaZama Zamas Stilfontein
Share This Article
Email Copy Link Print
Previous Article Weather Alert: Limpopo Premier Warns of Cyclone Dikeledi Amid Heavy Rains, SAWS Urges Calm Weather Alert: Limpopo Premier Warns of Cyclone Dikeledi Amid Heavy Rains, SAWS Urges Calm
Next Article The Z83 Form: Your Gateway to Government Job Opportunities Download the New Z83 Form 2025 Online
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Gauteng Events

Johannesburg Pride 2025: Tickets, Dates & Event Info

Johannesburg Pride 2025: Tickets, Dates & Event Info

October 15, 2025
Brazil Fest 2025: Where Culture Meets Car Culture

Brazil Fest 2025: Where Culture Meets Car Culture

October 15, 2025
Travis Scott Rocks Johannesburg: Fans Rave Despite Delays

Travis Scott Rocks Johannesburg: Fans Rave Despite Delays

October 13, 2025
Dvsn to Headline Once Upon a Time in Joburg

Dvsn to Headline Once Upon a Time in Joburg

October 10, 2025
Alberton Gears Up for 2025 PPS Road Race on November 9

Alberton Gears Up for 2025 PPS Road Race on November 9

October 8, 2025
- Advertisement -
Ad image

Your Trusted Source for Accurate and Timely Updates!

Our commitment to accuracy, impartiality, and delivering breaking news as it happens has earned us the trust of a vast audience. Stay ahead with real-time updates on the latest events, trends.
FacebookLike
XFollow

You Might Also Like

South Africa to Launch New Digital Visa System
NewsFeatured

South Africa to Launch New Digital Visa System

September 22, 2025
Olorato Mongale Murder: Police Search for Third Suspect After Car Found in KwaZulu-Natal
Breaking NewsNews

Olorato Mongale Murder: Police Search for Third Suspect After Car Found in KwaZulu-Natal

May 29, 2025
Ramaphosa Suspends Police Minister Senzo Mchunu Over Criminal Allegations
Breaking NewsFeaturedNews

Ramaphosa Suspends Police Minister Senzo Mchunu Over Criminal Allegations

July 14, 2025
Rand Water Announces 56-Hour Water Disruption in Joburg to Support City Power’s Mondeor Substation Expansion
NewsFeatured

Affected Areas By The 56-Hour Water Disruption in Gauteng

October 9, 2024
gauteng-news-logo-2025 gauteng-news-logo-2025

About US

Stay informed on the news impacting Gauteng and South Africa. Gauteng.News covers politics, finance, lifestyle, events, and essential updates.

Your reliable source for 24/7 news in Gauteng.

About
  • Home
  • Privacy Policy
  • Newsletter
  • Sponsored Posts
  • Contact us
Useful Tools
  • PAYE & UIF Calculator
  • Rent vs Buying Calculator
  • Grocery Calculator
  • Car Affordability Calculator
  • Salary Estimator Calculator
  • Fuel Cost Calculator
  • Salary Calculator
  • Inflation Calculator
© 2025 Gauteng.News
All Rights Reserved.
Welcome Back!

Sign in to your account

Username or Email Address
Password

Lost your password?