At least 100 Miners of a South African Mine Have Died

At least 100 Miners of a South African Mine Have Died: Report

Story by Matthew Impelli- Newsweek

Click here for the full story as published in Newsweek

A group representing illegal miners in South Africa reported on Monday that over 100 individuals have died after being trapped in a mine for several months.

Why It Matters

The illegal miners have been trapped inside the closed mine for several months. The coal miners were located inside a mine in the North West province of South Africa.

The miners trapped in the Stilfontein mineshaft were reportedly facing shortages of food, water and other essentials after police blocked off the entrances used to deliver supplies underground. They were previously denied supplies as part of the country’s efforts to combat illegal coal mining.

Their activity in abandoned mines has led to tensions with nearby communities, who report that illegal miners are linked to crimes ranging from robbery to rape. Illegal mining groups are often heavily armed, and clashes between rival factions can escalate into deadly confrontations.