Terror at South Pole

Antarctic scientists in fear after colleague’s ‘threat to kill’

- Jon King

SCIENTISTS stuck at the South Pole for 10 months say a member of their team has threatened to kill another.

The extraordinary claim was made in an email to a newspaper in which an unidentified researcher pleaded to be rescued from their remote base on top of an ice-covered mountain.

They said the man’s “behaviour has escalated to a point that is deeply disturbing”. They added: “Specifically, he physically assaulted [name withheld], which is a grave violation of personal safety and workplace norms.

“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.”

Assault

They also accused the unnamed man of sexually assaulting a colleague.

The research team from South Africa has been living in harsh conditions since May at the Sanae IV base in Vesleskarvet, Queen Maud Land.