Vesleskarvet, March 18: A scientist stationed at South Africa’s remote Sanae IV research base in Antarctica has sent an urgent email alleging "sexual assault, physical violence, and death threats" by a colleague. Trapped by extreme winter conditions, the 10-member team is cut off from the outside world until December, heightening concerns for their safety. The distress email, shared with the Sunday Times, pleads for immediate action to protect team members. Authorities have confirmed an assault took place but have yet to announce concrete measures.

According to The Guardian report, the email detailed how tensions had escalated at the isolated research base, creating a hostile environment. The scientist claimed that a male colleague physically assaulted a team leader and later issued a death threat against another member. “I remain deeply concerned about my own safety, constantly wondering if I might become the next victim,” the email stated. The report highlighted that officials were aware of the behavioural issues before the overwintering team was left stranded. South Africa Horror: Woman Sells 8-Month-Old Baby on Facebook Marketplace, Charged With Child Trafficking.

As per The Telegraph report, concerns about the accused individual’s conduct had been raised as early as December, before the SA Agulhas II research ship departed. Despite prior warnings, no action was taken, leaving the team to endure months of uncertainty. A government official admitted that there were no immediate evacuation plans, as travel to and from the base is impossible during the harsh Antarctic winter. The lack of contingency measures has raised serious questions about the oversight of South Africa’s Antarctic program. Serial Rapist in South Africa: Nkosinathi Phakathi Gets 42 Life Sentences for Raping Dozens of Women Including 9-Year-Old Girl.

South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment confirmed that interventions were underway, though details remained unclear. Environment Minister Dion George stated that the accused had been “psychologically re-evaluated” and showed remorse for his actions. However, experts have pointed out that in such extreme and isolated conditions, verbal assurances alone may not be sufficient. Authorities have also launched a full investigation, but its timeline remains uncertain due to the logistical constraints of the Antarctic winter.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 18, 2025 08:24 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).