South Africa: search begins for killers who stoned miners to death

Police in South Africa have begun searching for the killers of nine illegal miners, who were stoned to death in a western district of Johannesburg. 

The miners’ bodies were found lying in the streets of Matholeville, while another seriously injured victim was rushed to hospital. 

Police have since arrested 87 people for questioning, but are seeking more information. 

The attack on Friday came 24 hours after police had raided the area. Reports indicate that violent clashes between rival groups of workers are commonplace. 

Guateng Provincial Commissioner Lt Gen Elias Mawela said in a statement “We condemn this barbaric attack and we will ensure we leave no stone unturned in making the people of Matholeville and Roodepoort to feel safe”.

“The suspects will be arrested as soon as possible and the police will not sleep until we find them," he added.

Officers from other units in Johannesburg have also been summoned to join in the manhunt. 

The miners from Lesotho are just some of the thousands of illegal workers who come to South Africa each year. They are known locally as zama zamas - “those who try their luck” in Zulu. 

South Africa is one of the most violent countries in the world. According to government data, on average 58 murders a day were recorded last year. 

Photo: AFP