SOUTH Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken personal command of the Stilfontein mine crisis, where hundreds of illegal miners remain trapped underground, directly intervening to ensure a peaceful resolution to the month-long standoff.
The President’s intervention marks a sharp departure from earlier aggressive approaches suggested by some cabinet members, including Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni’s controversial statement about “smoking out” the miners.
“We will resolve this crisis through lawful means while preserving human life,” Ramaphosa said in his weekly column – From the Desk of the President.
More than 1,000 illegal miners have already surrendered and been arrested since the operation began. Police reports indicate some remaining miners may be heavily armed and are suspected to be part of organized crime syndicates.
The situation has highlighted the broader crisis of illegal mining in South Africa, which costs the economy billions in lost export revenue, royalties, and taxes. Criminal syndicates controlling these operations have been linked to violent crimes, including murder and gang rape in surrounding communities.
Ramaphosa emphasised that while law enforcement would continue, the immediate priority was ensuring safety. “The hazardous nature of unregulated mining, toxic fumes, and unstable shafts pose risks not only to the miners but also to our police and rescue personnel,” he said.
Medical teams remain on standby at the site, processing surrendering miners. Those requiring medical attention are being treated under police guard, while others face immediate arrest and prosecution.
The President also announced plans for a comprehensive strategy to address abandoned mines, acknowledging that the industry must take greater responsibility for mine closure and rehabilitation.
“While we deal firmly with criminal elements, we must also address the systemic issues that drive people to such desperate measures,” Ramaphosa said. “This requires a coordinated response from all levels of government and the mining industry.”
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the operation, part of the nationwide Operation Vala Umgodi, will continue until all miners have been safely brought to the surface and processed according to law.
