South African Antarctic research team stranded with violent colleague
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A South African research team stationed at SANAE IV, a remote Antarctic outpost, is reportedly living in fear and distress due to the violent and threatening behavior of one of their colleagues.
The accused team member, whose identity has not been disclosed, has allegedly physically assaulted, sexually harassed, and issued death threats to at least two fellow researchers, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
The team, consisting of three women and six men, was originally set to spend ten months in Antarctica, conducting research in extreme isolation. However, the ongoing threats have left them pleading for immediate evacuation.
In an email sent to authorities, one researcher expressed deep concern, stating: "His behavior has escalated to a deeply disturbing level. I constantly worry about my safety, fearing that I could be the next victim."
The research group includes experts from various technical fields. According to the South African National Antarctic Programme, their current team roster comprises:
- Mbulaheni Kelcey Maewashe – Team leader & senior meteorological technician
- Nivek Ghazi – Deputy team leader & electronics engineer
- Dr. Sihle Mpho Lawana – Medical professional & skincare entrepreneur
- Nkululeko Welcome Khoza – Mechanical engineer
- Athenkosi Mabope – Communications engineer
- Geomarr van Tonder – Electronics engineer
- Allowed Tumelo Seepane – Instrumentation technician
- Alian Stuart Jacobs – Diesel mechanic
- Lebogang James Tsime – Electro-mechanical engineer
Despite their diverse skills, the team remains powerless in dealing with the situation due to their extreme isolation.
With no scheduled rescue mission, the crew has no means of leaving the base until December, when the next supply ship is expected to arrive. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Environment Minister Dion George has downplayed the crisis, stating that "all is calm and under control", and no team members require emergency evacuation.