North West Safety MEC says escape of Stilfontein kingpin is an embarrassment! North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, has expressed outrage and disappointment following reports of the escape of an alleged kingpin of illegal mining activities in Stilfontein.
The suspect, identified as James Neo Tshoaeli, also known as Tiger, a Lesotho national, is believed to have escaped police custody shortly after resurfacing from mine shaft 11 in Stilfontein last week.
Escape Raises Questions About Police Operations
According to police reports, Tshoaeli, who was reportedly implicated by other illegal miners as a key figure in underground operations, was never officially booked into any police station.
“This is an embarrassment that cannot be tolerated, especially when you consider the resources that have been allocated to eradicate illegal mining activities, which had been successful up to this point,” said Morweng.
He described the escape as shocking, given the suspect’s alleged role in the brutal control of underground operations, including murder, torture, and withholding food from other miners.
Appeal to the Public and Accountability for Police Officers
The MEC urged community members to assist in locating Tshoaeli, emphasizing the danger he poses as a fugitive of justice.
“Anyone with information about his whereabouts should immediately contact their nearest police station,” Morweng said.
He also called for accountability within law enforcement, particularly for officers who may have facilitated Tshoaeli’s escape.
“The fact remains that we have many dedicated police officers. However, if there are any involved in aiding Tiger, they must face severe consequences. Such individuals have chosen the wrong career and should be dealt with harshly,” Morweng stated.
The incident has sparked concerns about potential corruption within the ranks of law enforcement, with Morweng emphasizing the need for strong action to restore public confidence.
Death of Rescued Illegal Miner Adds to Tragedy
In a related development, one of the illegal miners rescued from the disused Stilfontein mines has died in hospital.
North West provincial Department of Health spokesperson, Tshegofatso Mothibedi, confirmed the death of Mr. Koali Rankomo, who passed away at 4 a.m. on Monday at Klerksdorp/Tshepong Tertiary Hospital.
“The patient was admitted after being diagnosed with gastroenteritis and dehydration,” said Mothibedi.
Rankomo’s death highlights the harsh conditions faced by illegal miners, who often endure severe physical and mental strain while working in disused mines.
Massive Rescue Operation and Fatalities
The Stilfontein tragedy has drawn national attention, particularly following a government-led rescue operation last week that extracted 246 illegal miners from the disused mine.
The rescue effort also revealed a grim toll: 78 bodies were recovered from the mine’s depths. Survivors have described harrowing conditions underground, including food shortages, violence, and the oppressive control of powerful figures like Tshoaeli.
Government’s Efforts and the Need for Reform
The South African government has intensified its focus on combating illegal mining, which has devastating social and economic consequences. The extensive operation in Stilfontein was hailed as a success, but Tshoaeli’s escape has cast a shadow over the progress made.
Morweng reiterated the importance of community involvement and called for sustained efforts to dismantle illegal mining networks. He also emphasized the need for robust reform within the police force to address corruption and inefficiency.
A Wake-Up Call for Authorities
The Stilfontein tragedy has exposed systemic issues in South Africa’s management of disused mines and its response to illegal mining. The escape of a high-profile suspect like Tshoaeli serves as a stark reminder of the challenges authorities face in enforcing the law and maintaining accountability within their ranks.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on bringing perpetrators to justice, providing support for survivors, and addressing the underlying causes of illegal mining. For many, the Stilfontein incident represents an urgent call for reform and accountability at every level of governance.
