A landslide at an abandoned mine near Rustenburg, South Africa, has resulted in the deaths of 14 unauthorized mine workers. Eight others were seriously injured, and rescue and medical efforts are ongoing. Police spokesperson Colonel Adele Mayberg stated that the dilapidated condition of the mine and lack of safety measures significantly increase the risk of such accidents.
Authorities reported on Tuesday that rescue operations and investigation at the site are underway. The incident occurred near the city of Rustenburg, approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg. Colonel Mayberg noted that further details about the deceased and injured are not immediately available as officials are still accessing the scene.
In South Africa, thousands of undocumented miners, known locally as “Zama Zamas,” frequently search for gold and other minerals in these abandoned mines. Unauthorized mining activities are often linked with organized crime, murder, extortion, and other illegal operations. Mayberg emphasized that there are no safety measures in place for workers operating in such disused mines.
According to Mayberg, the weakened structures of these mines increase the likelihood of rock falls and other hazards. With rescue and investigations ongoing, more information on the precise causes of the accident is expected to emerge. This recent tragedy has once again highlighted the issues surrounding the safety of unauthorized miners and the management of abandoned mines.
