The acting police commissioner in the North West has called for swift accountability following the escape of James Neo Tshoaeli, a notorious figure in the illegal mining world. Tshoaeli, also known as “Tiger,” is believed to have escaped police custody after resurfacing from mine shaft 11 at Stilfontein last week. His escape has sparked an intense investigation, with authorities questioning how such a high-profile criminal could slip through the cracks of the police system.
Tshoaeli, a Lesotho national, is alleged to have been a key player in underground illegal mining operations, controlling activities in the mines while allegedly overseeing brutal conditions. Police believe he was responsible for some of the miners’ deaths, as well as incidents of abuse, attacks on workers, and hoarding essential supplies from others. Despite his prominent role in these criminal operations, his disappearance from police custody raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement handling.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, national police spokesperson, confirmed that Tshoaeli was not properly booked into any of the police stations where other miners were held. This oversight has prompted extensive investigations into how he managed to escape from mine shaft 11 and reach the Stilfontein police holding cells. According to police records, Tshoaeli was never admitted to any local hospital for medical treatment, suggesting a breakdown in standard procedures that allowed his escape to go unnoticed.
Acting Police Commissioner for North West, Major General Patrick Asaneng, expressed his outrage over the incident, calling it an embarrassment to the ongoing Vala Umgodi operation. This operation, which has been in effect since December 2023, aims to combat illegal mining in the region and ensure the safety of those involved. Asaneng’s disappointment was clear, highlighting that Tshoaeli’s escape is a significant setback to the operation’s progress and the broader efforts to crack down on illegal mining activities.
Authorities are now urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist in locating Tshoaeli. The Stilfontein police station is the point of contact for those who may have leads, and members of the community are encouraged to report any suspicious activity.
The situation is further complicated by the recent rescue of 246 illegal miners from the disused mine shaft, where rescue teams also discovered the bodies of 78 miners. This tragedy underscores the dangerous conditions within illegal mining operations, as well as the complexities of handling the widespread issue of unlawful mining in the region.
As investigations continue, the search for Tshoaeli and those responsible for his escape intensifies. The authorities remain committed to bringing him to justice, with a renewed focus on strengthening security and accountability within the ranks of law enforcement.
