Cabin fever might be setting in
A researcher at an isolated base in Antartica has sent a worrying email requesting help after another scientist threatened to kill one of their colleagues.
The group of 10 scientists from South Africa are due to remain at the base for a further 10 months, and the -50C temperatures outside make it impossible for them to escape.
According to The Times the group is stationed at the SANAE IV located in Vesleskarvet, Queen Maud Land.
Last month, a team member sparked concern after sending an email about a person’s ‘egregious’ and ‘deeply disturbing’ behaviour, accusing them of physical and sexual assault as well as threatening to kill somebody.
The email read: “His behavior has become increasingly egregious, and I am experiencing significant difficulty in feeling secure in his presence.
“It is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure my safety and the safety of all employees.
“Regrettably, [his] behavior has escalated to a point that is deeply disturbing. Specifically, he physically assaulted [name withheld], which is a grave violation of personal safety and workplace norms.”
The message continued: “Furthermore, he threatened to kill [name withheld], 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 message reportedly stated “numerous concerns” about the person in question had allegedly been raised before the S. A. Agulhas II ship that brought them there had departed on its return journey.
It takes approximately 10-15 days to travel the 2,485 miles from Cape Town to the base.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), which manages the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), confirmed an investigation is underway regarding the email.
DFFE communications chief Peter Mbelengwa issued a statement which said: “The department is 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.”
However, currently the only way for the scientists to leave the base would be through emergency medical evacuation to a neighbouring German base, 186 miles away.
Dion George, South Africa’s environment minister, has revealed that he would reach out, stating: “There was a verbal altercation between the team leader and this person. Then it escalated and then that person did physically assault the leader.”
George clarified that researchers must go through psychological evaluations to ensure they are mentally prepared for the extreme conditions and there were no prior concerns.
