South African authorities are facing a humanitarian crisis after thousands of illegal miners became trapped in an abandoned gold mine.

More than 4,000 miners, locally known as "zama zamas," are believed to be trapped deep underground in an abandoned gold mine in Stilfontein, South Africa. Authorities have cut off their supplies of food and water in an attempt to force them out and make arrests.

The miners, who have been working illegally in the mine, are now facing dire conditions. They are running out of food and water, and many are believed to be sick and injured. Some have already died.

In recent weeks, hundreds of zama zamas have managed to escape the mine, but many more remain trapped. The South African police have sealed off the area around the mine to prevent any more miners from escaping.

The situation has escalated into a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of lives at risk. The international community is being urged to provide assistance and support.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]