At least 31 illegal miners killed in South Africa explosion only now coming to light
NBCJun 25, 2023
South Africa Says It Won't Rescue Illegal Miners in Closed Mine
Above: Community members are searched by South African Police Service officers before entering the mine shaft to negotiate with artisanal miners underground to resurface in Stilfontein on Nov. 13, 2024. Image copyright: Emmanuel Croset/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
The South African government has said it won't assist illegal miners located in an abandoned mine in the country's North West province after police cut off food and water supplies to force them to come to the surface.
Police, who initiated the blockade on Oct. 18 as part of operation "Close the Hole," had previously suggested that as many as 4K could be underground. However, a spokesperson on Thursday said that the number is likely closer to between 350 and 400.
The Spin
Narrative A
These illegal miners, who voluntarily went into the mine to conduct illicit business, must come back up on their own. If volunteers wish to go down themselves to deliver food, that's fine, but police officers shouldn't risk their lives to help criminals. They will come out eventually and face the prosecution they deserve.
Narrative B
This strategy is inhumane. While the government's frustration with illegal mining is reasonable, it shouldn't prevent them from saving human lives. After police rescue these individuals from starving to death, they can arrest and prosecute them — but until then, they should follow the principle of ubuntu and show compassion.