By Levy Masiteng
Authorities in Stilfontein, North West, are conducting a massive manhunt for James Neo Tshoaeli, popularly known as “Tiger,” an alleged Lesotho mining kingpin who escaped police custody.
Tshoaeli is accused of overseeing underground operations, stockpiling food, and being implicated in deaths, assaults, and torture.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, Tshoaeli surfaced from Shaft 11 in Stilfontein last week and reportedly received assistance to evade capture.
“Records indicate that Tiger was never processed at several other stations where some illegal miners are being held, nor is he admitted to any local hospital for medical treatment,” Mathe said.
Major General Patrick Asaneng, acting provincial commissioner, has ordered the deployment of maximum resources to apprehend Tshoaeli.
Asaneng expressed disappointment but vowed to hold accountable those involved in the escape.
Last week, police conducted an operation to rescue miners from the shaft, resulting in the arrest of over 200 alleged illegal miners, including Tiger.
Tiger was named in statements by miners as a ringleader who ran operations, according to the police.
“He is also being accused by some illegal miners… (as) being allegedly responsible for some deaths, assault and torture that is alleged to have taken place according to videos in police possession. He is also alleged to have hoarded and kept food away from other illegal miners,” the police said.
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