Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
31 December 2024 | 15:50 CAT

The South African Human Rights Commission has investigated police tactics at Stilfontein mine, where over 4,000 trapped miners have faced worsening conditions amid ongoing calls for mining reform. 20 November 2024. (Image – Health and Safety International)

Continued delays in rescuing illegal miners trapped underground at Stilfontein Shaft 11 have drawn widespread criticism from human rights groups and activists. With dire reports of starvation and inhumane conditions, the situation is escalating into a severe humanitarian crisis.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Tariq Jenkins, a leading human rights advocate, describes the situation as “incredibly dire.” He reports that between 800 to 1,000 miners remain trapped two kilometres underground. The community-driven rescue effort, which relied on innovative localized pulley systems, was halted last Friday when the mining company destroyed the infrastructure during a clearing operation. “This destruction has left the site without any effective means to rescue the miners,” Jenkins said.

Further complicating the rescue, there has been no food delivery to the miners since Friday. “The lack of supplies is pushing this crisis to the brink,” Jenkins emphasized, appealing to civil society for urgent food and medical supplies donations.

The community has also faced challenges from the state and mining authorities. Jenkins criticized the lack of a coordinated rescue plan and questioned the allocation of funds. “There’s talk of 7.8 million rand being required for operations, but the lack of transparency and collaboration is deeply frustrating,” he said.

Heartbreaking reports have emerged from the miners, depicting conditions so extreme that some have resorted to eating human flesh to survive. Amidst the suffering, the community has initiated on-site spiritual ceremonies, offering prayers and vigils to honour those affected. “This is not just a crime scene; it’s a place of dignity and hope,” Jenkins added, urging faith leaders and citizens to support the spiritual and physical effort.

The crisis has highlighted gaps in government accountability and the urgent need for co-designed rescue plans that incorporate community knowledge and expertise. Jenkins called for an immediate restoration of the community’s rescue infrastructure alongside a technically advanced operation to expedite the rescue process.

As the rain falls on the site, hope remains alive through community resilience and an unwavering demand for justice.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Habib Bobabt and Tariq Jenkins, a leading human rights advocate, here.