The death toll from a poisonous gas leak in a South African shantytown has risen to 17, with officials suggesting that the accident is likely connected to an illegal mining operation. Premier of Gauteng Province, Panyaza Lesufi, stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the gas cylinder leak and the type of gas involved. Lesufi visited the site near Boksburg, east of Johannesburg, where the incident occurred. Initial findings indicate a possible link to illegal mining, according to a spokesperson from the Disaster and Emergency Management Services in Ekurhuleni municipality. The spokesperson did not provide further details regarding the suspected illegal miners among the deceased. Illegal mining, particularly for gold or coal, has long been a problem in South Africa, resulting in significant losses for the mining industry and the state due to theft by small-scale miners and organized crime networks. Lesufi expressed frustration with the situation and called for the police to be equipped to combat illegal mining effectively. The incident took place in a shack containing cylinders mounted on wooden tables covered with iron sheets. Lesufi shared a photo of one of the cylinders, which he claimed was the source of the leak. The area has been secured by hazmat-suited forensic workers, who will continue their investigations. The incident highlights the ongoing dangers associated with illegal mining activities.