South Africa police force 540 illegal miners from abandoned shaft

In South Africa, police have forcibly removed 540 illegal miners from an abandoned mine shaft in Orkney, arresting them in the process.

Security forces had previously blocked food and water deliveries to the miners, leading to conditions of starvation and dehydration.

Many began resurfacing over the weekend, although hundreds are still believed to be underground.

National Police Commissioner Lt. Gen. Shadrack Sibiya reported that since December 2023, over 13,690 individuals have been arrested related to illegal mining activities, highlighting ongoing challenges with "zama zamas," as these miners are known.

The police have also seized substantial cash and uncut diamonds during their operations.