A toxic gas leak caused by illegal miners processing gold in a densely populated settlement in South Africa has resulted in the tragic deaths of 16 individuals, including three children. The incident occurred in the Angelo settlement located in Boksburg, just outside Johannesburg. Initially, emergency services feared the death toll could reach 24, but after a recount, the confirmed number was revised to 16.
Gauteng Province Premier Panyaza Lesufi, who visited the scene, expressed his deep sorrow, describing the situation as emotionally draining and tragic. Throughout the night, search teams scoured the area for any additional casualties, while the bodies of the victims remained untouched on the ground, awaiting the arrival of forensic investigators and pathologists.
The leak was caused by a nitrate gas that escaped from a gas cylinder stored in one of the shacks. The cylinder, suspected to be utilized by illegal miners to extract gold from rock and dirt, had emptied during the leak. The authorities extended their search for victims within a 100-meter radius from the site of the cylinder.
The impoverished informal settlements surrounding South Africa’s cities often lack proper lighting, and the search efforts were hampered by the narrow alleys between shacks. The incident once again highlights the prevalent issue of illegal mining in the gold-rich areas near Johannesburg, where miners enter closed and abandoned mines in search of remaining deposits. These operations are not only dangerous but also contribute to increased crime rates in the affected neighborhoods.
Illegal mining has claimed numerous lives in South Africa, both from accidents and explosions. Last year, violent clashes erupted after a group of individuals, including suspected illegal miners, allegedly gang-raped eight women working on a TV shoot at a disused mine.
The recent tragedy is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal mining and the urgent need to address this issue. The victims, including innocent children, deserve justice, and efforts should be focused on curbing illegal mining activities to prevent further loss of life and the perpetuation of criminal activities.