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SAPS illicit mining vehicle can be seen in the above illustration.
Illegal miners in Stilfontein, North West, claim more than a hundred bodies are still trapped underground. The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (Giwusa) warns that the death toll could rise significantly if action is not taken to assist the illegal miners.
Gisuwa president Mametlwe Sebei says the lack of food and medical supplies underground could cause a rise in the number of casualties.
“When we last communicated with them, I think about two weeks back or so, they were saying eight … then the number came to 15. The police themselves on the ground, contrary to what the spokespersons are saying nationally, were desperate to say let’s re-establish the community rescue system after they dismantled it.”
Sebei adds, “Because they knew that contrary to the idea that those miners are not trapped, they are trapped. And if they do not establish that pulling system we are going to end with all of them being dead.”
Below is the full interview with Gisuwa president Mametlwe Sebei:
