Pretoria - Mineral Resources Minister Ngoako Ramatlhodi has urged communities to desist from engaging in illegal mining activities.
He expressed regret at the loss of life following the recent illegal mining incident in Benoni, east of Johannesburg.
On Saturday, eight illegal miners were found dead in Benoni. Four of the dead men were found near the Benoni CBD, two in open ground near the Benoni Gold Mine and the other two underground. The miners had reportedly been killed execution style by gun shots to their heads.
“It is not only dangerous, but can lead to incidents such as this one.
“Through the Illegal Mining Stakeholder Forums established, the department will continue implementing measures to ultimately eradicate these illicit activities,” the minister said on Monday.
The measures include the sealing off of access holes, and working with law enforcement agencies to apprehend criminals.
The minister further commended the active role played by the police to date, including in the recent arrest of members of a syndicate who were involved in multi-million rand illegal gold mining activities in the Carletonville area. – SAnews.gov.za
