South African police have launched an intense manhunt for a Lesotho gang leader, known as “Tiger,” who escaped custody following a deadly police operation at an illegal gold mine in Stilfontein.
Last week, authorities recovered 78 bodies and rescued 246 survivors, many of whom were severely malnourished after months underground. Police allege that Tiger and his gang were responsible for hoarding food, leading to the deaths, while also being linked to reports of assault and torture.
The operation, which had been heavily criticized for cutting off food and water supplies to the miners, has led to widespread condemnation, and investigations are underway to track down both Tiger and any officials who may have helped him escape.
Peoplesmind