South Africa responds to abuse claims at Antarctic base

Psychologists and other experts are in "direct and constant" contact with a South African science team in Antarctica after physical assault and sexual harassment allegations were made, a government minister has said.

- Oliver Holmes

The isolated Sanae IV research station came to public attention last weekend, with the publication of an email sent by a researcher accusing a male colleague of physical assault and making a death threat.

The person who made the allegations said they feared for their own and their colleagues' safety, demanding "immediate action", according to the South African Sunday Times newspaper, which published the email but removed the names.

The team at the clifftop base is not due to be relieved until December, after winter ice storms pass.