Videos reveal bodies and trapped miners in South Africa, with more than 100 feared dead

In South Africa, hundreds of illegal miners have been trapped underground in an abandoned shaft at the Buffelsfontein Gold Mine for several months. More than 100 are believed to have died of starvation or dehydration, with only 26 survivors and 18 bodies retrieved so far. Despite authorities claiming the miners can come out but refuse to do so, rights groups argue that they are effectively dying of starvation and are unable to climb out due to the steep shaft and removed ropes and pulley system. Illegal mining is common in South Africa, where abandoned mines are entered by informal miners seeking leftover deposits. Attempts to force the miners out have been met with resistance, with some managing to escape, but many are too weak or ill to climb out. The situation has led to a tense standoff between police, miners, and rights activists, who have criticized police tactics and lack of assistance. Videos allegedly from the mine showing emaciated miners and dozens of dead bodies wrapped in plastic have been shared by rights groups. The South African government has stated it will not assist the miners, considering them criminals, and plans to “smoke them out.” The rescue operation continues as authorities work to save those trapped underground.

Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com