20 more Stilfontein illegal miners resurface! Authorities in the North West are intensifying efforts to dismantle underground networks of illegal mining operations, following the resurfacing of 20 more illegal miners, also known as zama zamas, in Stilfontein.
This development adds to a growing number of arrests in the region, as law enforcement targets the activity at abandoned mines.
Illegal Miners Surface at Buffelsfontein
The group of 20 illegal miners emerged on Wednesday from the abandoned Buffelsfontein gold mine, where numerous zama zamas are believed to be operating.
Despite the mine being disused, these miners have been traversing kilometres underground, using old tunnels to access active shafts owned by Harmony Gold as exit points.
This week alone, 54 illegal miners have been apprehended, with law enforcement ramping up operations in response to the growing illegal mining crisis.
Previous Arrests and Resurfacing Incidents
Wednesday’s discovery follows two other incidents earlier in the week. On Monday, another 20 illegal miners surfaced at the same shaft, and on Sunday night, 14 were found at a separate location.
The escalating activity highlights the vast underground network being exploited by zama zamas, often at great personal risk, to extract gold from abandoned shafts and evade capture.
Arrests and Processing
North West police have confirmed that this week’s operations have led to the arrest of dozens of illegal miners. The latest group to surface consisted of foreign nationals from various countries:
- 10 from Lesotho
- Six from Zimbabwe
- Four from Mozambique
Police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone stated that the group is undergoing processing and will face charges relating to illegal mining and potential breaches of immigration laws.
“The arrests underscore our commitment to tackling illegal mining activity in the region,” said Mokgwabone.
The Underground Operations
The illegal miners are believed to use the disused shaft 11 of Buffelsfontein as an entry point, travelling extensive distances underground. These tunnels connect to operational shafts belonging to Harmony Gold, providing them with a hidden route to surface and escape detection.
While Harmony Gold does not own the abandoned mine where these operations originate, its shafts are being inadvertently exploited as exit points, creating security challenges for the company.
Economic and Social Impact
Illegal mining, a growing problem in South Africa, has significant social and economic implications. These operations often involve dangerous conditions, resulting in frequent injuries and fatalities underground.
Additionally, illegal mining affects legitimate mining operations, drains government resources, and fosters criminal networks. The involvement of foreign nationals adds another layer of complexity, as authorities work to address both illegal immigration and criminal activity.
Law Enforcement Intensifies Efforts
The arrests this week reflect an increased focus by law enforcement on combating illegal mining activities in the North West. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has partnered with other entities, including private security firms, to strengthen monitoring and enforcement around disused mines.
Mokgwabone emphasized the importance of continued vigilance:
“We will not relent in our efforts to bring illegal miners to justice and dismantle these underground networks that threaten safety and economic stability.”
Broader Implications
The situation in Stilfontein is emblematic of a larger issue facing South Africa’s mining industry. Disused mines across the country have become hotspots for illegal activities, from mining to trafficking, with authorities often playing catch-up in tackling these challenges.
Efforts to secure abandoned mines and disrupt illegal operations require significant resources and collaboration among various stakeholders, including mining companies, police, and local governments.
Conclusion
With 54 arrests in one week, the crackdown on illegal miners in Stilfontein signals a determined effort by authorities to address the growing crisis. However, the systemic nature of the problem, coupled with its social and economic dimensions, underscores the need for a long-term strategy.
As investigations continue, the resurfacing of zama zamas from abandoned mines highlights the urgency of securing these areas and addressing the underlying causes driving illegal mining operations.
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