Illegal miners trapped underground
An operation to rescue at least 30 people who are trapped underground will be undertaken today (Sunday February 16) at the corner of Snake and Range View roads.
Ekurhuleni emergency services spokesperson Roggers Mamaila said emergency services know of at least 30 people who are trapped five metres below the surface in a ventilation shaft.
Mamaila said the men trapped were in communication with people above ground at around noon today.
The men are believed to be illegal miners.
They are believed to be trapped under two boulders five metres underground.
The men told emergency services there could be about 300 other people trapped further underground.
Mamaila said an attempt will be made to remove two boulders which are trapping the men this afternoon.
“It is a very risky operation and we will try do it as safely as possible,” said Mamaila.
Ekurhuleni metro police were notified of the men’s presence during a by-laws operation.
