By Johnathan Paoli
The harrowing conditions faced by illegal miners trapped in abandoned shafts around Stilfontein continues to unfold, as humanitarian aid reaches them amidst reports of deaths, starvation and violence.
Letters from miners trapped at Shaft 11 reveal six fatalities underground, with desperate pleas for basic sanitation and supplies.
They reported sitting with decomposing bodies for weeks.
On Tuesday, emergency medical services confirmed the recovery of a decomposed body, with additional remains expected to surface in food supply bags being sent down and retrieved under a court order.
Following legal intervention by the Mining Affected Communities United in Action (Macau), the Pretoria High Court granted an urgent interdict compelling authorities to allow aid deliveries.
Supplies such as water, porridge and aloe are being sent underground, with community members mobilising resources to assist.
Judge Nicolene van Nieuwenhuizen’s ruling denounced earlier tactics by the SA Police Service, including withholding food to
You’ve reached your free article limit
Subscribe to enjoy unlimited access to trusted journalism. Cancel anytime.
Subscribe nowNeed help? molokom@insidepolitic.co.za
