Mining has long been the backbone of South Africa’s economy. Alongside agriculture, it is the biggest sector of the economy, employing almost half a million people. But beneath its surface lies a growing crisis – the surge in underground sit-ins. This illegal and unprotected form of protest reached exceptional levels in 2023, posing a significant threat to both employees and the industry. As we investigated this issue, we discovered compelling reasons why this should matter to all stakeholders and we propose actionable strategies for employers to navigate this unsettling trend.