The Telegraph
Potchefstroom – This week, authorities in North West detained 26 illegal miners who emerged from shafts at deserted gold mines in Stilfontein.
For several weeks, there have been conflicting reports regarding the number of illegal miners – commonly known as Zama Zamas – underground, raising concerns about whether they were trapped or deliberately staying hidden to evade capture.
Initially, reports stated that thousands of miners were stranded underground and needed assistance to exit the abandoned mines. However, this estimate has been revised to hundreds.
Using ropes to climb from dangerous shafts, the miners have been coming to the surface in small groups – mostly at night – only to be arrested by police at the exit points.
On Boxing Day, (Thursday, 26 December 2024), police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh reported: “Since Monday, (23 December 2024), up to today at 11:00, a total of 26 illegal miners have been arrested for illegal mining, trespassing, and violating the Immigration Act.”
Colonel Myburgh further disclosed: “Out of the 26 illegal miners, four came up at Margaret Shaft and 22 at Buffelsfontein Shaft number 10.”
“Among those arrested are nine individuals from Lesotho, four from Zimbabwe, nine from Mozambique, and four South Africans.”
Colonel Myburgh indicated that, in addition to the aforementioned charges, one suspect will face charges related to the unlawful possession of gold-bearing material.
Moreover, another suspect was apprehended with explosives.
“All of them are currently undergoing processing and are expected to appear in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court on Friday, (27 December 2024),” Colonel Myburgh confirmed.
The police spokesperson noted that “Vala Umgodi” operations are ongoing throughout the province.
