South Africa's Controversial Tactics in Illegal Mining Standoff

A South African court has ordered the lifting of a police blockade at a disused goldmine in Stilfontein, where hundreds of illegal miners, including undocumented migrants, have been trapped for a month. The blockade, intended to force the miners out, had prevented food and water from reaching them. The court's temporary order allows emergency relief to reach the miners, some of whom have resorted to eating vinegar and toothpaste. While the police welcomed the ruling, they stated it does not prevent them from arresting miners who emerge. The incident highlights the challenges of illegal mining in South Africa, where many closed mines are targeted by miners seeking remaining deposits.