A devastating mining tragedy in Stilfontein, where over 100 illegal miners, known as Zama Zamas, have reportedly perished underground. Harrowing footage circulating online reveals a scene of despair: piles of lifeless bodies trapped in the depths of Shaft 11. The Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA) has squarely blamed the authorities, alleging gross negligence and a failure of policy.
In a statement, MACUA leader addressed the tragedy:
“This is nothing short of the Stilfontein Massacre. The footage we’ve seen paints a dire picture. It shows piles of human bodies—miners who died needlessly. This massacre is the bloody culmination of a treacherous policy pursued by the government. These miners were not only deprived of basic necessities like food, water, and medication, but the police and mine owners dismantled the pulley system, effectively sealing their fate underground. For 13 days, they had no means to escape, no hope of rescue.”
According to MACUA, the disaster stems from systemic failures in managing illegal mining operations. The leader described a “campaign of lies and fabrication” by the authorities, highlighting false claims that the miners could escape through alternative shafts. “Contrary to propaganda, these miners were starving, sick, and utterly abandoned. When the pulley system was dismantled, it was a death sentence. Over 100 bodies lie underground, and even those who survived are emaciated—living skeletons,” he said.
Mzukisi Jam, SANCO Provincial Spokesperson, expressed disappointment in the poor handling and negligence by Police in rescuing the trapped miners. “There has been narratives that has been misleading…and those who wanted them dead must be held accountable. If the intention of the state was to rescue the victims, why did they allow them to stay this long before being rescued,” Jam queried.
The footage shows the horrifying conditions the miners endured, with survivors barely clinging to life. MACUA also alleged that attempts to deliver food and water were restricted by the police, exacerbating the crisis. “The starvation and dehydration were intentional. This was not just neglect; it was calculated. These miners were martyred by the state’s deliberate actions,” the MACUA leader asserted.
Calls for Accountability
The MACUA leader dismissed police claims that the miners chose to remain underground out of fear of arrest. He pointed out that thousands of Zama Zamas had previously left similar shafts and were processed without facing long sentences or significant charges. “The idea of mass suicide is absurd. These miners knew there was no imminent threat of arrest. This was not a case of fear; it was a case of systemic failure and outright murder.”
He urged the public and media to amplify the voices of those affected and demand accountability. “The world must know what has transpired here. These miners were not criminals; they were victims of a broken system. Their deaths must not go unnoticed.”
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has announced its commitment to retrieving the bodies and addressing the tragedy, but MACUA insists on more substantial reforms. They call for transparent investigations, the prosecution of those responsible, and immediate measures to prevent future disasters.
As the retrieval operation begins, the nation watches in shock and mourning. The Stilfontein tragedy has exposed the deep-seated issues plaguing illegal mining in South Africa, demanding urgent attention and action.
