Gauteng Government Urges Military Deployment Against Illegal Miners

Amidst escalating violence and death linked to illegal mining activities in Gauteng, the Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety is taking urgent action. The committee announced its plan to write to President Cyril Ramaphosa and Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, urging military action against illegal miners once and for all. This plan comes after the recent discovery of five bodies, suspected of illegal miners, found shot in Riverlea over the weekend after a gun battle between rival miner gangs. Additionally, 17 people tragically died last month from a gas leak linked to illegal mining activities in Boksburg.

Also read: Authorities Investigate Riverlea Shootout Involving Suspected Rival Mining Gangs

The committee views illegal mining as a matter of escalating lawlessness and mayhem and a form of economic sabotage with devastating effects on the South African economy. It calls for investigating mining companies’ alleged involvement in illegal mining and their responsibility in addressing this issue. Furthermore, the committee urges the Department of Mineral Resources to hold these mining companies accountable for rehabilitating mines they previously owned.

The situation has prompted the committee to summon provincial leaders to explain the proposed measures to curb the illegal scourge. The Gauteng MEC for Community Safety and the provincial police commissioner must appear before the committee and present clear action plans and timelines. The committee emphasises that the safety of Gauteng’s citizens must be a top priority. They cannot allow lawlessness to persist, especially with the alleged involvement of illegal foreign nationals in these activities.

Source: Gauteng government calls for military deployment against illegal miners

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Picture: Twitter / CityofJoburgZA

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