A group of South African scientists stranded in Antarctica have sent a desperate email pleading for rescue after a colleague allegedly threatened to kill another team member.

According to an article in The Daily Mail, the research team, stationed at the remote SANAE IV base, is facing at least 10 more months of isolation due to extreme weather conditions.

Alarming Claims of Threats and Assault

Reports suggest that one of the researchers sent an urgent email detailing a violent attack by a colleague, who is now allegedly issuing further threats.

The team is said to be living in fear of this individual, with concerns mounting over their safety.

In addition to the threats, the accused team member is also alleged to have sexually assaulted a colleague.

Government Response and Recruitment Process

The South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has responded to these harrowing claims, stating that it follows a rigorous selection process for researchers deployed to such extreme environments.

Their statement says that candidates undergo thorough background checks, including psychological assessments, medical evaluations, and interpersonal relationship screenings.

Only those who meet all criteria are selected for the mission.

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Before deployment, team members participate in training and team-building exercises to ensure they can handle the isolation and stress of Antarctic conditions.

The DFFE has emphasised that no previous issues were reported among the current overwintering team before their departure aboard the SA Agulhas II on February 1, 2025.

However, an incident was officially reported on February 27, 2025, prompting immediate intervention.

Ongoing Intervention and Resolution Efforts

Following the allegations, the DFFE activated its crisis response plan, deploying trained professionals to mediate and restore stability at the base.

The department maintains that it has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct and is actively addressing the situation.

South Africa’s Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, and Director-General Nomfundo Tshabalala are personally overseeing the case.

The accused individual has reportedly cooperated with further psychological evaluations, expressed remorse, and issued a formal apology to the victim.

The DFFE have also, in parallel, activated a labour relations process to deal with the matter as it relates to the alleged physical assault. Alleged sexual harassment is also being investigated. Reports of sexual assault are not correct, it said.

The department has also implemented ongoing professional counselling to rebuild trust and ensure a safe working environment.

kim.kay@iol.co.za

IOL

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