Stilfontein – The grim recovery operations at shaft 11 in Stilfontein, North West, resumed on Wednesday, with an additional 18 bodies being retrieved from the depths.

Since the operation began on Monday, a total of 78 bodies have been lifted from over 2 km underground utilizing a specialized cage.

In a recent update regarding the rescue, police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe remarked: “As of 16:00 on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 84 living illegal miners have been successfully saved.”

“All 84 individuals have been detained. Regrettably, 18 have been confirmed deceased.”

Brigadier Mathe disclosed the following statistics by 4:00 p.m. on the third day of the operations:

From Monday to Wednesday:

  • 216 illegal miners were rescued
  • 78 bodies were recovered

At least five pathology trucks were observed near the shaft, indicating that more bodies may still be discovered.

Stay tuned for further updates…