The article describes the dire circumstances faced by illegal miners, known as zama zamas, in South Africa's Buffelsfontein mine. Following a police crackdown, 78 bodies were recovered, and many survivors were found in a weakened state after being cut off from food and water. This situation arose as the local community faced severe unemployment due to the decline of the gold mining industry. Despite calls for help, both from the families of the miners and the public, authorities continued the crackdown, resulting in a tragic humanitarian crisis.
The state has struggled to rein in the zama zamas, engaging in a deadly standoff that forced miners into desperation amid a collapsed community.
Families of the miners, many living in severe poverty, labeled the situation a humanitarian tragedy as they pleaded for food and medical aid, often to no avail.
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