Tebogo Msimanga |
North West Police opened inquest dockets after 20 unidentified male bodies were found at two various locations in Orkney outside Klerksdorp. The first five decomposed bodies were found on Tuesday, 14 June 2021, outside an old and unused mine shaft ventilation in Lawrence Park, Orkney.
North West Police Spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone said on Wednesday, 15 June 2021, 14 more decomposed bodies were found along Ariston Road near the railway line in Orkney.
“While still processing the scene, the police received information that another body was discovered where the initial five bodies were found, thus bringing a total number to 20.
Mokgwabone added that all the deceased are suspected to be illegal miners commonly known as “zama zamas” operating in obsolete shafts in Orkney and Stilfontein.
“Furthermore, the deceased suffered severe body burns. As part of investigations, post-mortems will be conducted to determine a cause of death for these men whose bodies were found wrapped in white plastic bags.”
Mokgwabone further said Investigation into the matter continues and it includes the possibility of linking the incident with the video that was circulated on social media platforms, wherein a man calling himself “Mafifi”, was seen pleading for assistance following an apparent smoke inhalation occurrence at shaft number six.
The police request anyone who may have information regarding the incident to call Colonel Gaanakgomo on 082 568 5975 or South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number: 08600 10111.
