The Underground Siege: A Tragic Tale from South Africa's Abandoned Mines

South African police concluded a rescue operation at an abandoned gold mine, recovering 78 bodies and rescuing over 240 survivors. The operation was ordered by a court after minors were trapped in the mine without food or water due to a standoff with authorities. Criticism arose over government actions.

In a dramatic turn of events, South African police announced the conclusion of a rescue operation at an abandoned gold mine, where scores of illegal miners were trapped. Authorities revealed that they rescued more than 240 survivors while recovering 78 bodies, a day earlier than initially projected.

The operation, precipitated by a court order following a relative's appeal, unfolded amid criticism over the government's decision to cut off supplies as part of a crackdown on illegal mining. Tensions surged as civic groups condemned the tactics, accusing officials of exacerbating the miners' plight.

A specialist mining rescue company was employed to ferry survivors using a small cage, with community volunteers aiding in the precarious task. While the authorities faced backlash, the incident highlighted the broader challenge of illegal mining in South Africa's numerous abandoned mines.

(With inputs from agencies.)