South African Court Rules on Illegal Miners

A South African court has ordered police to lift the blockade at the Stilfontein mine, where hundreds of illegal miners, some underground for weeks, have been cut off from food and water. The ruling comes amid rising humanitarian concerns, particularly after a decomposed body was recovered from the mine and reports that miners have resorted to eating toothpaste and vinegar. While the police welcomed the court's decision, they reiterated that any miners who resurface will still face arrest for illegal mining activities. The situation highlights the broader issues of unemployment and poverty driving individuals to engage in dangerous illegal mining, often referred to as 'zama zamas'. Relatives of the trapped miners have been gathering outside the mine, advocating for their loved ones while expressing frustration towards the government's harsh measures. A full hearing on the matter is scheduled for next week to determine the next steps in addressing the miners' plight.