Benoni, South Africa – December 2, 2025 – A private security company has sealed an illegal mine shaft in Benoni on the East Rand, near the local race track, in an effort to curb unauthorized mining activities. The operation, carried out on Monday, December 1, 2025, targeted a site frequented by informal gold prospectors known locally as “Zama Zamas,” who operate in disused mining infrastructure.
The closure of the shaft has led to reports of multiple individuals remaining trapped below ground, with emergency response teams actively monitoring the situation. Rescue efforts are underway to assess the extent of the entrapment and ensure the safety of those affected.
One deceased individual was recovered from the shaft during initial assessments following the sealing. Authorities have confirmed the recovery but have not released details on the identity or cause of death pending further investigation.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges with illegal mining in the Gauteng region, where thousands of abandoned shafts from South Africa’s historic gold rush era continue to attract informal operators. These sites, often located in urban or semi-urban areas like Benoni, pose significant risks due to structural instability, lack of ventilation, and absence of safety protocols.
Private security firms have increasingly been enlisted to address such operations, as they provide rapid response capabilities in areas where public resources may be stretched. The specific company involved in this closure has not been named in official statements, but the action aligns with broader community and law enforcement initiatives to secure hazardous sites.
As of Tuesday morning, December 2, 2025, no additional recoveries have been reported, and the number of trapped miners remains unconfirmed, with estimates suggesting several individuals may still be affected. Specialized mine rescue units have been alerted, and coordination with local police and emergency services is in progress to facilitate safe extractions.
This event occurs amid a national uptick in enforcement actions against illegal mining, driven by concerns over public safety, environmental damage, and links to organized crime. In recent months, similar operations across Gauteng and North West provinces have resulted in the closure of multiple access points to disused shafts, prompting debates on balancing security measures with humanitarian responses.
Updates on the Benoni incident will be provided as new information becomes available from official sources. Residents in the vicinity of the race track are advised to avoid the area during ongoing operations.
