By Thapelo Molefe
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu met with provincial leaders, local authorities, and families of illegal miners in Stilfontein on Friday to address the escalating crisis around abandoned gold mines.
The meeting was fraught with frustration as community members demanded swift and decisive action from the minister.
Mchunu detailed national efforts to combat illegal mining, highlighting upcoming presentations by Minerals and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe to the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security (JCPS) Cluster.
“These presentations will focus on three key issues,” Mchunu said.
“Firstly, artisanal mining mechanisms tailored for South Africans in areas where abandoned mines could benefit local communities. Secondly, guidelines for mining companies on how to properly close mines. Lastly, an approach to prevent illegal mining by ensuring compliance with these prescripts.”
Mchunu acknowledged the harsh economic realities pushing locals into illegal mining but voiced concern over the growing presence of undocumented migrants in the sector.
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