33 Zimbabweans Arrested in Abandoned Mine Operation
19 January 2025
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By A Correspondent

A recent operation at an abandoned mine in Stilfontein, North West, has led to the arrest of 246 illegal miners, including 33 Zimbabwean nationals. The operation, which began on Monday, has been intense and tragic, with 78 dead bodies recovered so far ¹.

According to Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the National Police spokesperson, the operation at Shaft 11 of the old Buffelsfontein gold mine has been challenging. The breakdown of those arrested reveals a significant cross-border issue, with 128 Mozambicans, 80 Lesotho nationals, 33 Zimbabweans, and five South Africans among the detained individuals.

The operation, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), aims to combat illegal mining, which has been escalating in the country. Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu reported that over 1,576 illegal miners had been arrested between August 2024 and January 12, 2025.

The incident highlights the risks of illegal mining, particularly in abandoned mines, and the strain it places on both the safety of the miners and the resources of the South African government.