Thousands of miners are feared trapped underground in a disused gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa, where local volunteers are stepping in to assist rescue efforts. Authorities initially sealed the mine shaft to disrupt illegal mining operations, depriving workers of supplies. The closure has sparked outrage, with families accusing the government of negligence and effectively "burying" miners alive.
In response to growing pressure, the government has reversed its stance and announced plans to deploy rescue teams, including mining experts. Conditions in the mine, which is over 2,500 meters deep, are perilous due to extreme heat, unstable tunnels, and toxic gases. Many miners are reportedly too weak to surface after enduring months without proper resources.
The miners, many of whom are undocumented migrants from neighboring countries, are caught in a cycle of poverty and dangerous work due to unemployment in the region. The incident highlights ongoing tensions around illegal mining in South Africa, with authorities labeling the workers as criminals while communities emphasize their economic desperation.
