Mine Rescue Services will lead rescue operations this week at the disused  Stilfontein mine in the North West.

The intervention comes after the High  Court ruled on Friday that government must help rescue illegal miners in  Stilfontein.

Since November last year, more than a thousand illegal miners have resurfaced at the mine after they ran out of food and water supply.

Different pressure groups are optimistic that more illegal miners will be safely pulled from the ground this week, thanks to machinery and assistance provided by government.