Key Takeaways:

• Rescue teams in Stilfontein, South Africa, have recovered 60 bodies and 82 survivors from an illegal gold mine.
• The operation marks a serious crackdown on illegal mining following a prolonged siege that began last August.
• Survivors face charges related to illegal mining and immigration violations.

SURVIVORS and bodies continue to emerge from an illegal gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa, as authorities report that at least 60 bodies and 82 survivors have been pulled from its depths during a harrowing (Al Jazeera) rescue operation. The efforts are part of a broader crackdown on illegal mining that has seen police cut off food and water supplies to miners in a bid to force them to the surface since the siege began in August. The operations were intensified on January 14, when authorities began utilizing a metal cage to facilitate rescues from a depth of more than 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) below ground (Reuters).

According to police, the first nine bodies were recovered on January 13, with an additional 51 found by the evening of January 14, highlighting the grim reality of the situation. This illegal mining site has become notorious, primarily for its abandoned condition, making it a target for unlicensed miners, many of whom are immigrants seeking a livelihood in precarious conditions.

In an effort to combat the economic impact of illegal mining, which mining industry figures suggest costs the economy hundreds of millions of dollars annually, South African officials have labeled this operation as essential for economic stability. Mining Minister Gwede Mantashe described it as "a war on the economy," amidst ongoing criticism from human rights organizations and local communities about the government's approach to the crisis. These groups have called for more humanitarian-focused interventions rather than punitive measures, particularly considering the vulnerable conditions of those trapped inside the mines (Reuters).

The rescue operation is expected to continue for several more days as authorities strive to locate and assist any remaining individuals still trapped within the mine.