96 undocumented children among foreign miners arrested in Stilfontein

By Johnathan Paoli

The North West Social Development Department is ensuring that 96 undocumented children who are among illicit miners detained in Khuma, Stilfontein, are being looked after.

Spokesperson Bathembu Futshane said the children, primarily from Southern African Development Community countries, are currently receiving medical care, legal support and secure accommodation as they await legal proceedings under the Child Justice Act.

“We are committed to ensuring that their rights are protected and that they are given proper care while awaiting court proceedings. The department will also assess if they are in need of additional protection,” Futshane said.

He said the illegal mining operation, which targeted illegal miners, has drawn attention to the significant presence of minors among the workforce, and that most of the arrested individuals, including the children, were believed to be from Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Lesotho.

He said the department’s swift intervention underscored its commitment to ensuring