More illegal miners resurface from abandoned Stilfontein mine! The issue of illegal mining, or zama zama activity, continues to draw attention in Stilfontein as more miners have emerged from abandoned mines in the area.
On Thursday afternoon, three additional miners resurfaced from shaft 10 of the old Buffelsfontein gold mine, heightening the urgency of addressing the crisis.
This development adds to the 14 zama zamas who emerged from the same shaft earlier in the week, bringing the total number of illegal miners surfacing in the Stilfontein area to 57 within just a few days.
More illegal miners resurface
The Resurfacing of Miners
The Buffelsfontein gold mine, once a thriving hub of economic activity, has long been abandoned, leaving its underground shafts susceptible to illegal mining operations. Shaft 10, in particular, has become a focal point as groups of zama zamas—informal miners often working under hazardous and illegal conditions—have been surfacing there in recent days.
On Thursday, the sight of three more individuals emerging from the dark depths of the mine underscored the dangerous reality of illegal mining. These miners join the growing list of individuals who have taken the significant personal risk of descending into abandoned shafts in search of gold and other precious resources.
A Week of Activity in Stilfontein
The past week has seen heightened activity in Stilfontein’s abandoned mines, with 57 illegal miners now confirmed to have resurfaced from multiple shafts. Authorities and local residents have been monitoring the situation closely, particularly following the large group of 14 who emerged earlier this week.
While the motivations behind the resurfacing remain unclear, speculation suggests increased risks underground, either due to structural instability or disputes among mining groups, may have prompted the miners to abandon their activities.
The Risks of Illegal Mining
Illegal mining in South Africa poses significant risks, not only to the individuals involved but also to the surrounding communities. Zama zamas often work in unregulated and unsafe conditions, where accidents such as cave-ins, gas leaks, and underground fires are common.
The Buffelsfontein mine is no exception. Abandoned for years, its shafts lack the safety measures and maintenance required for proper operation. Miners entering these spaces are exposed to life-threatening dangers with little to no recourse in the event of an accident.
In addition to physical risks, the zama zama economy is often tied to broader criminal networks. These miners frequently operate under the control of syndicates that exploit their labor while reaping the profits of illicit gold sales.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
The resurfacing of these miners has prompted renewed calls for action from local authorities and community leaders. Stilfontein residents have expressed concerns over the safety and environmental impact of illegal mining in the area, including the potential contamination of local water sources and damage to infrastructure.
Law enforcement agencies have been monitoring the situation, but efforts to curtail illegal mining are complicated by the vast network of abandoned mines across the country and the organized nature of zama zama operations.
Government’s Stance on Illegal Mining
Illegal mining remains a significant challenge for South Africa’s government. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has identified the need for stricter enforcement and rehabilitation of abandoned mines as key priorities.
However, addressing the issue requires not only a crackdown on illegal activity but also addressing the socio-economic drivers behind zama zama operations. Many miners turn to illegal mining out of economic desperation, unable to find formal employment opportunities.
The Way Forward
As the situation in Stilfontein develops, it highlights the broader, systemic issues tied to illegal mining in South Africa. The resurfacing of 57 miners in one week is a stark reminder of the scale of the problem and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
Balancing enforcement, rehabilitation of abandoned mines, and socio-economic interventions will be critical to addressing the zama zama phenomenon and ensuring the safety of all those affected by it—both above and below ground. For now, the Stilfontein community and authorities remain on edge as the situation unfolds.
The post More illegal miners resurface from abandoned Stilfontein mine appeared first on News365.co.za.
Zim Instantly via Simplex Solutions