South Africa: Trapped Illegal Miners Eating ‘Parts Of Legs, Arms, And Ribs’ For Survival

A harrowing situation has emerged in South Africa’s Buffelsfontein Gold Mine, where trapped illegal miners have reportedly turned to cannibalism to survive. According to reports, authorities had cut off their food supply to force them to surface, leading to horrifying consequences. The Telegraph reports that some miners have resorted to consuming body parts, including legs, arms, and ribs, to sustain themselves.

Hundreds of Miners Still Trapped Underground

Initially, it was estimated that thousands of illegal miners had been trapped in the disused mine. Recent efforts led to the rescue of 324 individuals, but 78 of them were already deceased. Despite rescue operations, several hundred miners remain underground, refusing to surrender. The South African authorities, in an attempt to pressure them out, have completely halted food and water supplies since November.

Survivors Reveal Grim Reality

Two survivors, now out on bail and facing charges of illegal mining and possession of gold, shared their ordeal with The Telegraph. They detailed the nightmarish conditions inside the mine, where miners were left with no choice but to consume human flesh. A rescuer also described to the BBC the horrific state of decomposing bodies and the unbearable stench inside the mine. Reports suggest that miners also resorted to eating cockroaches due to extreme hunger.

A Crisis Fuelling Debate Across South Africa

The mining disaster has sparked division across South Africa. While some praise the government’s hardline stance against illegal mining, others, including trade unions and human rights groups, have criticised the authorities for what they call “one of the most horrific displays of wilful negligence in recent history.” The government had identified the illegal mining operation early last year and sealed off the mine entrance in August. Since then, nearly 2,000 miners have emerged voluntarily, but a significant number remain underground, refusing to leave.

The Dark Side of South Africa’s Mining Industry

South Africa is known for its rich mineral resources, with mining playing a crucial role in its economy. However, illegal mining has become a persistent issue, with gangs and undocumented migrants attempting to extract whatever remains in abandoned shafts. This latest crisis highlights the perilous conditions faced by these miners, as well as the government’s controversial approach to tackling illegal mining.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, but with the worsening conditions underground, the fate of the remaining miners remains uncertain.