March 18, 2025: A distressing email has been sent by a group of scientists stationed at the remote Sanae IV research station in Antarctica, pleading for urgent assistance due to a deteriorating situation involving physical assault, sexual assault and death threats from a colleague.

The team of 10 researchers is currently based at the station, located approximately 100 miles south of Antarctica’s ice shelf and over 2,600 miles from Cape Town. With winter storms and ice closing in, they are expected to remain there for another 10 months, until December.

According to the email, a fellow researcher allegedly attacked a colleague and issued threats of further violence, prompting the team to fear for their safety. One team member also accused the individual of sexual assault.

The South African government has confirmed that an assault took place at the station, following earlier complaints of inappropriate behaviour. Environment Minister Dion George, whose department manages the country’s Antarctic program, acknowledged the incident and stated that he was “considering options.”

The ministry reported that when the ship departed on February 1, “all was in order.” However, the incident was first reported to the Ministry on February 27. The ministry also confirmed that the accused has issued a formal apology to the victim.