Cabinet Updates on Mercenary Returns and Mine Rescue Efforts
The South African Cabinet has confirmed the safe return of 15 of 17 nationals who were recruited to fight for Russian forces in the Ukraine conflict, while rescue operations continue at a Northern Cape mine following a serious accident.
The men, aged 20 to 39, were extracted with the assistance of Russian authorities after they issued distress calls seeking to leave the conflict zone. Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, briefing media following a Cabinet meeting, stated that all 17 have been formally released from the contracts they signed with military contractors.
“Fifteen of the men are back in South Africa, while two remain in Russia,” Ntshavheni said. “One is hospitalized, and the other is being processed for final travel arrangements.” She added that the South African Embassy in Moscow will monitor the hospitalized individual until recovery and repatriation are possible.
The development follows a pledge of support from Russian President Vladimir Putin during a telephone call with President Cyril Ramaphosa on 10 February 2026. The South African government, which maintains a position of neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, has consistently opposed the recruitment of its citizens as mercenaries, a practice illegal under domestic law. Ntshavheni confirmed that investigations into the recruitment circumstances and potential legal violations are ongoing.
Separately, Cabinet commended mining companies and the Minerals Council South Africa for their response to a mud rush at the Ekapa Minerals Mine in Kimberley on 17 February 2026, which trapped five employees underground. All mine operations have been suspended as an intensive rescue operation proceeds.
Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources Gwede Mantashe, alongside Northern Cape Premier Zamani Saul and local leadership, visited the site. A departmental team, led by the Chief Inspector of Mines, remains on location to support efforts.
“The affected families are receiving ongoing communication,” Ntshavheni said, noting government’s support for the families. Upon rescue completion, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources will conduct a formal investigation under the Mine Health and Safety Act to determine the accident’s cause.
The dual updates highlight two critical national issues: the legal and diplomatic ramifications of citizens participating in foreign conflicts, and the ongoing imperative for mine safety compliance and emergency response.
