Violence by illegal gold miners in South Africa forces families to leave homes
Residents Displaced in Sporong Settlement Due to Illegal Mining Activities
Residents Displaced in Sporong Settlement Due to Illegal Mining Activities
Several residents have vacated their homes in the Sporong informal settlement, located near Randfontein, South Africa, amidst ongoing violence and intimidation associated with illicit mining operations.
Local resident Miami Chauke, who sustained a gunshot injury, remains in the area despite the threat. “We really don't know what they are looking for. There's no money, but they still shoot at us, they take even the little that we have,” he stated.
The affected families have temporarily relocated to a community hall in Randfontein. Authorities have announced plans to intensify efforts against the illegal miners, known as Zama Zamas.
Local resident Miami Chauke, who sustained a gunshot injury, remains in the area despite the threat.
Julian Mameng, currently residing at the community hall, described the situation as “very very hectic.” He reported that the Zama Zamas frequently attack, resulting in fatalities, assaults, and theft.
Residents have expressed reluctance to return unless their safety can be assured. Mameng remarked, "No one of us is deciding to go back, and we won't go back. The ammunition that the guys have, they are heavily armed those guys."
There is a belief that the land is rich in gold, which fuels the illegal mining activities. "The zama zamas say our place is rich in gold, we are staying on top of money, and that is why they are killing us, using the gun to scare us away," Mameng explained.
Community leaders have requested military intervention. The prevalence of illegal mining is linked to organized crime and other illicit activities, prompting a government crackdown initiated approximately two years ago.
The South African Human Rights Commission notes that the Sporong situation exemplifies challenges faced by numerous mining-affected communities. Many of the clandestine miners originate from neighboring countries and operate in areas surrounding Johannesburg and other settlements along the gold reef, driven by economic hardships.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
