South African police hunt gang leader 'Tiger' after mine escape

South African police have launched a manhunt for a gang leader nicknamed 'Tiger,' who allegedly escaped from custody after overseeing illegal mining operations where at least 78 bodies were recovered. The Lesotho national reportedly received assistance from police officials during his escape, prompting investigations into potential corruption within the police force. The lengthy siege of the mine involved cutting off food and water to miners, which has drawn widespread condemnation, with Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana asserting that the state should not be held responsible for the miners' voluntary actions. Following the operation, 246 survivors were rescued, many in poor health due to starvation and dehydration, while some miners accused gang leaders of hoarding food. The illegal mining operations are primarily run by gangs from Lesotho, with many of the workers being undocumented immigrants. Police believe that Tiger is also implicated in various crimes, including deaths and assaults that occurred underground.