14 Illegal Miners Dead in North West Rockfall; Others Feared Trapped

At least fourteen illegal miners have died following a rockfall at a disused mine in South Africa's North West province, near Rustenburg. Eight individuals were hospitalized following the incident, which occurred late Monday night. Police have stated that an unknown number of other miners may still be trapped underground.

What Happened

The rockfall took place at the Nkaneng mine, an unregistered site located approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg. The majority of the deceased miners were identified as nationals from Lesotho. Police spokeswoman Colonel Adele Myburgh confirmed the fatalities and stated that police were on the scene, describing it as "active." The incident is being investigated as a case of inquest.

Background

Thousands of unregistered miners, known as "zama zamas," operate in South Africa, often scavenging for minerals in abandoned mines under hazardous conditions. These operations are frequently conducted in dilapidated shafts lacking any safety measures. While many "zama zamas" work in Gauteng province, the incident occurred in the North West province, an area with several established platinum mines.

Illegal mining is a persistent issue in South Africa, driven by poverty and unemployment. This sector has been associated with organized crime, including assassinations and extortion. In February, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the deployment of the army to combat illegal mining activities. Previously, in August 2024, approximately 90 clandestine miners reportedly lost their lives near Stilfontein, west of Johannesburg, when police blocked access to a disused gold mine.

Key Facts

• Fourteen illegal miners died in a rockfall at a disused mine near Rustenburg, North West province.
• The incident occurred late Monday night.
• Most of the deceased miners were from Lesotho.
• Eight other miners were hospitalized.
• An unknown number of miners are potentially still trapped underground.
• Police are investigating the incident as a case of inquest.
• The mine is located at Nkaneng, near Rustenburg, approximately 100 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg.
• The area is known for several established platinum mines.