2nd man lifted from illegal Stilfontein mine dies

A second miner has tragically passed away following a rescue operation at an illegal gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa. This follows the recovery of 87 bodies and the rescue of hundreds of miners from the abandoned site, marking one of the deadliest incidents in the country’s mining history.

Death in Hospital

The North West Province health department confirmed on Friday that Jonny Shingani, a miner who had been admitted to the hospital on January 14, succumbed to “medical-related conditions” on Thursday. While specific details of his condition were not disclosed, authorities linked the death to complications from gastroenteritis and dehydration, which had also caused the earlier death of another miner.

Shingani was among 33 miners admitted to healthcare facilities following a grueling three-day rescue operation that ended on January 16. The operation, aimed at clearing the disused mine shaft, was a culmination of efforts by law enforcement and health authorities to address the dire situation.

The Scale of the Disaster

The abandoned Stilfontein gold mine, located southwest of Johannesburg, has become notorious for illegal mining activities. Locally known as “zama zamas” — a Zulu term meaning “those who try” — these miners operate without permits, often under hazardous conditions.

Over 240 miners were rescued alive from the site using a metal cage, while 78 bodies were extracted during the operation. In total, 87 bodies have been recovered since efforts to clear the mine began in August 2024. Many of the miners were illegal immigrants from neighboring countries, adding a complex dimension to the crisis.

Ongoing Health Concerns

A health department spokesperson confirmed that of the miners initially admitted to hospitals, 17 remain under medical care, while the rest have been discharged. The healthcare workers have cited dehydration, malnutrition, and poor sanitary conditions as contributing factors to the health issues faced by the rescued miners.

The department is continuing to monitor the situation, but the scale of the crisis has highlighted the severe risks faced by miners working in such precarious conditions.

Illegal Mining: A Growing Concern

Illegal mining has become a significant issue in South Africa, which boasts some of the world’s largest reserves of gold, platinum, and other precious minerals. These activities not only pose safety risks to the miners but also lead to environmental degradation, revenue losses for the government, and strained relations with local communities.

Mining companies have long expressed frustration over the presence of zama zamas, who often operate in abandoned or disused mines. Residents of areas surrounding these sites frequently accuse the miners of criminal behavior, including theft and violence, further complicating the social dynamics.

Government Response

The Stilfontein tragedy has reignited calls for stronger measures to address illegal mining and improve safety standards. Authorities have vowed to intensify their crackdown on such operations while exploring ways to rehabilitate abandoned mine shafts to prevent further incidents.

The police and health departments have emphasized the importance of collaboration among law enforcement, mining companies, and local communities to tackle the issue effectively.

The Human Toll

While the government’s efforts to clear the mine have garnered attention, the human cost of illegal mining cannot be ignored. The miners, many of whom come from impoverished backgrounds, risk their lives in search of economic opportunities. The recent deaths of Jonny Shingani and others highlight the dire circumstances under which they operate.

Looking Forward

The Stilfontein incident serves as a somber reminder of the challenges posed by illegal mining in South Africa. As authorities work to address the issue, there is a pressing need for sustainable solutions that balance economic development, community safety, and environmental protection.