Rescue mission to retrieve more than 100 illegal miners in Mpumalanga unfolds
Three of the suspected zama zamas were found dead while 6 have resurfaced from the mine.
A rescue operation unfolded on 4 December 2024 at an abandoned mine in Sabie, Mpumalanga, where more than 100 illegal miners are trapped. Picture: Supplied/SAPS
JOHANNESBURG - A rescue operation is currently under way at an abandoned mine in Sabie, Mpumalanga, where more than 100 illegal miners are trapped.
The group was discovered after a private security officer spotted four others attempting to flee the area on Tuesday.
According to police, the joint rescue operation has rescued six zama zamas, while three others have been found dead
The provincial police spokesperson, Donald Mdhluli explained: "There are various units of the police in the area, the Emergency Medical Services, the Department of Health, Department of Home Affairs, as well as two private security companies and landowners’ plantation companies," said Police spokesperson in Mpumalanga Brigadier Donald Mdhluli.