At least another 10 zama zama captives were extracted from the illegal mineshaft in Sabie today, Thursday, December 5, thus far.

They were famished, dirty and tired when they were rescued.

Reports suggest the mining operations are about 150m underground.

Attempts to rescue more captives are ongoing, and multidisciplinary teams that include soldiers, police, security guards and a specialised unit are present.

The rescue procedure seems to be running at a quicker pace today. The media was told this was as a result of the special equipment that had been brought in overnight.

Nearly 20 zama zama captives have so far been rescued since yesterday. It was reported that the youngest captive was aged 17.

The national police commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has just arrived.

Also read: National police commissioner and senior cops to join Sabie zama zama rescue operation

He told the media that Mpumalanga was one of the most troublesome provinces in terms of illegal mining. He said the rescue operations are expected to take some days still.

Premier Mandla Ndlovu and the acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, are also on the scene.

Also read: Zama zama bosses reportedly keep more than 150 as forced labourers in illegal Sabie mine