Manhunt for Illegal Mining Kingpin in South Africa

South African police are searching for alleged illegal mining kingpin James Neo Tshoaeli following the discovery of 78 bodies at an abandoned mine. Reports indicate he exploited and mistreated miners. After a court-ordered rescue operation, authorities face criticism for their conduct in managing the situation and the dangers faced by illegal miners.

South African police have initiated a manhunt for James Neo Tshoaeli, known as “Tiger,” who is suspected of controlling operations at an abandoned gold mine. This comes after the discovery of 78 corpses at the mine in Stilfontein. Tshoaeli, a national from Lesotho, allegedly fled with the help of police officials after being rescued from the mine, where over 240 illegal miners were also brought to safety.

The police reported that some miners accused Tshoaeli of being responsible for significant violence, including “deaths, assault, and torture” underground. Furthermore, he is alleged to have hoarded food supplies, leaving many miners malnourished when they emerged. Police Commissioner Patrick Asaneng condemned the actions contributing to Tshoaeli’s escape.

Athlenda Mathe, police spokesperson, expressed the force’s “disappointment” regarding the misconduct within their ranks and stated an internal investigation will commence. Recent court directives led to the rescue operation, which lasted for months due to law enforcement blockades against illegal mining activities.

The recovery of the 78 bodies poses challenges, particularly due to many victims being undocumented migrants. The underground miners, sometimes referred to as “zama zamas,” have been underground since November, navigating the dangers associated with illicit mining operations.

Despite criticism from humanitarian groups accusing the authorities of overseeing a “massacre,” the police maintain that they are combatting organized crime controlled by mining “kingpins” like Tshoaeli, who manage resources and impede the miners’ attempts to resurface.

The manhunt for James Neo Tshoaeli underscores the challenges posed by illegal mining in South Africa. Police are facing internal scrutiny for their role in his escape while addressing the violence and exploitation occurring underground. As investigations continue, the plight of undocumented miners remains a pressing issue amid the crackdown on illicit mining.

Original Source: www.bbc.com