Hundreds of illegal miners have been trapped for months in an abandoned South African gold mine, with many feared dead from starvation and dehydration. Authorities initially attempted to force them out by cutting off supplies, a tactic now facing heavy criticism. A community-led rescue operation is underway, but the process is slow and dangerous due to the mine's depth and hazardous conditions. The incident highlights the challenges posed by illegal mining in South Africa and the government's response to it. The ongoing rescue efforts are recovering both bodies and survivors.