HARARE- Police have released the names of 20 Zimbabweans who died during the controversial Operation Vala Umgodi, a months-long standoff between authorities and illegal miners trapped underground in Stilfontein, southwest of Johannesburg in South Africa.
The operation, which began in August and concluded in January, resulted in at least 78 deaths, possibly due to starvation, according to human rights groups. Around 246 survivors, many emaciated, were rescued after authorities had cut off food and supplies for weeks.
Zimbabwean police, responding to a request from South African authorities, identified the victims. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police has received a request from South African authorities to assist in locating the families of those who died during the operation,” said national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi.
The following individuals have been identified as victims: Bothwell Mlambo, Bobo Sithole, Gladman Mlambo, Blessing Mlambo, Shepherd, Kenisa Majoni, Benard Mamombe, Trust Makitisa, Jairosi Pasa, Moses Chidumba, Thomas Chipanza, Jack Mlambo Maeza, Edzai Mlambo Maeza, Make Mlambo, Pindirai Dumbarimwe, Tendai Mubaiba, Mebishengs Mutubuki, Tinashe Shangure, Tafadzwa Ndlovu, and Justice Mwapinda.
Some of the victims’ full details remain unconfirmed, and authorities are urging relatives to assist with identification and repatriation for burial in Zimbabwe.
Operation Vala Umgodi saw 1,907 miners resurface, including 1,125 Mozambicans and 465 Zimbabweans. 87 bodies were retrieved, but many survivors, mostly foreign nationals, were arrested for illegal immigration, trespassing, and mining.
The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (Giwusa) has condemned the operation, calling it a dehumanising response to desperate miners and accusing the government of pursuing harmful policies.
