The tragedy of miners trapped underground and the police’s Operation Vala Umgodi is an all-time low for human rights – the government of national unity must act now
The single narrative of these miners as criminals in mainstream and social media ‘makes our recognition of our equal humanity difficult’
Illegal miners want the state to legalise their operations as it is the only way for them to earn a living
The ANC President says those found to be on the wrong side of the law will be arrested
Nitrate oxide from gas cylinders is believed to be the cause of the explosion
Companies are also grappling with a decline in commodity prices and weaker global demand
Limpopo police are apparently unaware they can use the home affairs department’s database to track suspected criminals
Zama zamas and foreigners have been made fall guys for the ills in our societies but ultimately politicians will have to take responsibility for their failings
One person was killed, while others were stripped naked and beaten by groups, who also barricaded roads and searched abandoned mines
It’s dangerous work done by people who live on the poverty line, and are desperate to provide for their families.
They work long and hard deep in the earth. It is a life on the edge. But there are plans to make things easier, writes Lucas Ledwaba
Volunteer rescuers had to endure a long night as they miraculously retrieved the bodies of the last two miners that were still trapped underground.
The finalisation of liquidation proceedings should at least give them some temporary relief.
With a dire socioeconomic situation and a history of xenophobia, turf wars between local and foreign zama zamas may lead to more violence.