A South African court has directed the police to end a blockade at a disused mine in Stilfontein, where thousands of illegal miners, known as “zama-zamas”, are trapped underground.
The Pretoria High Court issued an interim ruling allowing the miners to exit freely, while barring anyone from restricting their access or entering the mine except for emergencies.
The case was brought forward by the Society for the Protection of our Constitution, with Judge Brenda Neukircher presiding.
“Pending finalisation of the application, the mine shaft in Stilfontein, which forms the subject matter of this application, shall be unblocked and may not be locked by any person or institution whether government or private. Any miners trapped in the mine shaft shall be permitted to exit. No non-emergency personnel may enter the mine shaft,” Neukircher ruled.
The matter is postponed to Tuesday for government ministries to respond.
The standoff began after police launched “Operation Vala Umgodi” to crack down on illegal mining. To compel the miners to resurface, police blocked food and water supplies, leading to severe health concerns.
At least one decomposed body has been recovered, and many miners are reportedly too weak to come out.
Community members stepped in to rescue the miners using ropes, while police, citing safety risks, refused to enter the shafts.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has also launched an investigation into the police’s actions.
The police welcomed the court ruling but stated it does not hinder their duties.
“All those who resurface will continue to be assessed by emergency medical personnel on site, as has been the case. Those that are in good health will be processed and detained. Those that require further medical care will be taken to hospital under police guard,” said SA Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe.
Meanwhile, North West MEC Wessels Morweng is leading a rescue operation. Efforts involve police, local officials, and technical rescue teams. Community leaders have been asked to cooperate, while mine owners prepare to clear the site for machinery deployment.
By Saturday afternoon, three miners had emerged. In a separate operation, one person was arrested at a smelter linked to illegal mining activities.
Rescues continue as stakeholders push for a safe resolution.
