Sabie – The operation to rescue illegal miners trapped underground at the abandoned “South Mine” in Sabie, near Mashishing (previously known as Lydenburg) in Mpumalanga, has concluded successfully, with at least 153 individuals safely brought to the surface.

Earlier this week, a security officer raised the alarm after discovering the illegal miners trapped underground.

The rescue mission at the deserted South Mine in Sabie, Mpumalanga, has now been completed.

According to police reports, most of the rescued illegal miners, often referred to as Zama Zamas, are foreign nationals from Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

The operation began on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, and concluded by Friday evening, December 6, 2024.

“During the operation, a total of 153 suspected illegal miners were brought to the surface, with three fatalities recovered on Wednesday, December 4, 2024,” explained Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the spokesperson for the Mpumalanga police.

“There were no reported injuries among the rescued individuals or the law enforcement personnel involved in the operation.”

The rescue team consisted of personnel from a mining company, security firms, the South African Police Service (SAPS), as well as the Departments of Home Affairs and Health (Emergency Medical Services), and the South African National Defence Force.

Major General Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, expressed appreciation for the teamwork, professionalism, and cooperation shown throughout the operation.

“An investigation into the illegal mining operations has already begun to ensure that justice is served,” stated the General.

“We ask that everyone allow this team the necessary space to conduct their investigation without interruptions; updates will be provided in due course. Meanwhile, Operation Vala Umgodi will continue to actively tackle illegal mining activities within the province.”

On Thursday, December 5, 2024, the National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, visited the site during the rescue operation.

“It is important to emphasize that additional resources are required to rescue any further illegal miners,” General Masemola asserted.

“We are currently assessing what can be done and what resources are needed to save lives.

“Mpumalanga is one of seven provinces identified as a hotspot for illegal mining activities.”

General Masemola was accompanied by Lieutenant General Hilda Khosi Senthumule, the Divisional Commissioner for Detective and Forensic Services, Lieutenant General Maropeng Johanna Mamotheti, the Divisional Commissioner for Visible Policing and Operations, and General Mkhwanazi.