Research managers issue response after scientists stuck on Antarctica for 10 months send plea for help
Research managers have responded to a member of a research team in Antarctica who called for help after a colleague was accused of threatening to kill a team member.
The scientist, part of the South African delegation, wrote a desperate email calling for 'immediate action' after claiming that a man in the base had already physically assaulted someone, and threatened to do more harm to others.
They're part of a 10-man team that are currently trapped in the Sanae IV base on a cliff edge in the world's most secluded continent, 105 miles inland from the ice shelf.
The weather is progressively getting worse, making it impossible to step outside, as winter sets in for those in the southern hemisphere.
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Scientists usually work at bases in Antarctica for months at a time, with the South African team set to be based there for 10 months.
The only way out at this time of year, given the environment, is due to an emergency medical evacuation to a German base 190 miles away, according to South Africa's Sunday Times.
What did the email say?
In case you missed it, the desperate email from the scientist stated that the man's behaviour was becoming 'increasingly egregious, and I am experiencing significant difficulty in feeling secure in his presence'.
It went on: “It is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure my safety and the safety of all employees.
"Regrettably, his behaviour has escalated to a point that is deeply disturbing.
"Specifically, he physically assaulted [X], which is a grave violation of personal safety and workplace norms.
"Furthermore, he threatened to kill [X], creating an environment of fear and intimidation.
"I remain deeply concerned about my own safety, constantly wondering if I might become the next victim."
The scientist behind the email and the accused have not been named.
How did officials take the news?
Now, government officials have responded, in an attempt to defuse tensions.
South Africa's Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, which is in charge of the nation's Antarctic research programme, explained that it was 'responding to these concerns with the utmost urgency and have had a number of interventions with all parties concerned at the base'.
“A full investigation is being commissioned and the department will act accordingly in relation to any wrong conduct against any official that has misconducted themselves,” they added.
Dion George, South Africa's environment minister, stated previously that he would reach out, saying: "There was a verbal altercation between the team leader and this person. Then it escalated and then that person did physically assault the leader."
He reminded people that 'you can imagine' what it is like to be in 'close quarters' with the same people for such a long period of time, highlighting that it 'can be very disorientating'.
George also clarified that scientists must undergo psychological evaluations to ensure that they are mentally prepared for the extreme conditions, which go beyond the -50°C temperature.
Topics: Science, Environment, World News, Weather
Joshua Nair