South Africa Faces Crisis as Thousands of Illegal Miners Remain Underground

Authorities cut off supplies to compel miners to surface, citing illegal activity and safety concerns.

An estimated 350 to 4,000 illegal miners, known as zama zamas, are trapped in a disused mine in Stilfontein, South Africa, facing arrest if they resurface.
The South African government has refused to send aid, asserting that the miners are involved in criminal activities and must come out voluntarily to face prosecution.
The police operation, named 'Vala Umgodi' or 'Close the Hole,' has blocked food and water supplies to force the miners out, leading to deteriorating conditions underground.
Community members and relatives of the miners have called for government intervention, expressing concerns over the humanitarian crisis and the health of those underground.
The South African Human Rights Commission is investigating the police's actions, with criticism mounting over the government's hardline approach and potential human rights violations.