• Six bodies recovered as rescue efforts at the Stilfontein mine continue.
• Over 100 illegal miners are believed dead due to harsh conditions underground.
• Authorities' attempts to seal the mine led to severe restrictions on food and water.
• Disturbing footage from inside the mine shows emaciated miners and deceased individuals.
• The situation has been labeled a "massacre" by a trade union representing the miners.

In a tragic development at the Stilfontein mine in South Africa, rescue operations have unearthed six more bodies as authorities continue to assist dozens of illegal miners believed to be trapped nearly 2 kilometers underground. These operations come after a tense period where, amidst a crackdown on illegal mining, devastating circumstances have emerged, leading to claims of more than 100 fatalities since police intensified their efforts to clear the area last November. Reports indicate that about 26 miners were rescued on Monday, with an additional eight emerging alive on Tuesday, as stated in a report by BBC News.

The harsh crackdown aimed at controlling illegal mining activities, where miners, often referred to as "zama zamas", have operated without permits, saw authorities restricting access to food and water. A recent court ruling compelled the government to expedite rescue efforts in light of these conditions. An assembly of miners, trade union officials, and community leaders has characterized the situation as a "Stilfontein massacre," highlighting the inhumane conditions reported underground. According to a statement made by Mametlwe Sebei, president of the General Industries Workers of South Africa (Giwusa), “What this footage does is show a pile of human bodies, of miners that died needlessly,” illustrating the severe tragedy unfolding in the mine.

Disturbing videos reportedly filmed underground depict emaciated figures and deceased miners wrapped in makeshift body bags, further validating the grave circumstances faced by those trapped. These videos have surfaced via mobile phones brought to the surface by some of the survivors. Though the authenticity of these videos remains unverified, a voice on one recording highlights the urgency, stating, “We’re starting to show you the bodies of those who died underground.”

As rescue crews continue their efforts at the mine, the South African authorities are utilizing a cage specifically designed to transport miners up and down the shaft. This apparatus, being hoisted every hour, can accommodate six to seven individuals at a time, aiming to alleviate the ongoing crisis within the abandoned gold mine. The increasing death toll amidst a desperate search for survivors underscores a dire need for intervention, making this a priority not only for local entities but also for international observers.

For further details on this developing story, refer to the full report by CBS News.