28 more illegal miners surface at Sheba Mine

Mpumalanga police say the latest group was processed on Tuesday morning and could soon join the other 494 suspects who appeared in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court.

The mine, which is privately owned, has become the focal point of a major crackdown on illegal mining in the province.

Speaking to Jacaranda FM news,  provincial police spokesperson Donald Mdhluli confirmed the latest developments, noting that mine security continues to monitor the area.

“So, this morning, the 28 came to the surface, and they are being processed, so to speak. And, so far, what is the total of the illegal miners that have been… You remember I said it was 518, because of the 24, so you'll just add that number...28 to the 518..”

Mdhluli added that there is no clear indication of how many more individuals may still be underground.

"We'll keep on monitoring, it's a private mine, that one. We are not there physically… So, I don't want to say there are no people, or there are people underground."

Concerns have also been raised about the health conditions of the miners, many of whom are believed to have spent extended periods underground without access to food, clean water, or medical care.

Mdhluli assured that emergency protocols are in place.

"Normally, when they go to the police station, that's why we say they process them. If they see there is someone who is sick, then they have to do the right thing. You cannot put someone that is either injured or sick inside the cell. You have to arrange for our partners from emergency medical services… But we don't know of anything. It depends on when they process."

Police have not ruled out further arrests as they maintain a presence in the area.

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