The bodies are suspected to be that of zama-zamas, operating in an obsolete shaft in Orkney and Stilfontein.

One resident told OFM News that the bodies were found just 5km away from his home and stated that it's scary to think that such a terrible thing happened.

The man says it is suspected that there was a gas burst.

In a video that circulated on social media, a man who introduced himself as "Mafifi" can be heard saying people are being killed by gas and he appealed for help. He also asked for a location where they can dump the bodies once the gas is under control.

Another resident told OFM News that she is horrified by the incident, and says communities continue to live in fear because of zama-zamas in the areas of Stilfontein and Orkney. She adds that little is being done to address the problem.

Minister of Minerals Resources, Gwede Mantashe, has visited the area on Wednesday, and stated that a discussion of rehabilitation will take place.

OFM News/Joba Matsheng