At least 14 illegal miners, commonly known as zama zamas, have been found dead in the North West province. Several other miners were reportedly injured in the incident. The bodies were discovered at an abandoned mine shaft near the Nkaneng informal settlement in Marikana on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
The discovery has prompted a police response, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) North West Commissioner, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, travelling to the scene.
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Details surrounding what happened inside the abandoned shaft remain limited. Authorities have yet to provide further information on the circumstances that led to the deaths and injuries.
Zama Zamas Found Dead At Abandoned Marikana Mine Shaft
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The bodies were located in an abandoned mine shaft close to Nkaneng informal settlement in Marikana. The number of people who may still be inside the shaft, if any, has not been confirmed. Police are expected to provide more information once officials have assessed the scene.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
