Foreign Affairs Minister Urges Basotho to Aid in Identifying Victims of Stilfontein Mine Tragedy
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Mr. Lejone Mpotjoane, has called on the Basotho nation to assist in identifying compatriots who tragically lost their lives in the Stilfontein disused mine in Klerksdorp, South Africa, late last year.
During a recent operation at the Stilfontein mine, it was reported that some of the deceased illicit miners could be from Lesotho. The operation led to the arrest of 1,905 illegal miners and the discovery of 88 bodies in a state of advanced decomposition, making the identification process exceedingly difficult.
Minister Mpotjoane urged families with relatives or friends in the Stilfontein or Klerksdorp area who suspect their loved ones might be among the deceased to urgently provide DNA samples. This will enable authorities to match the samples with the remains and facilitate the identification process.
To assist in this effort, the Minister announced that the identification process will be conducted by a forensic team. Families are encouraged to participate in the process, which will take place on Thursday, February 13, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, and Friday, February 14, between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
This tragedy highlights the ongoing risks faced by illegal miners in South Africa and underscores the need for regional cooperation to address challenges faced by vulnerable communities seeking economic opportunities in hazardous environments.
