Illegal mining | Zama zamas fight back
Gunshots rang out in the Johannesburg suburb of Riverlea as specialised police units moved in to flush out illegal miners in the area.
The community says it is being terrorised by the Zama Zamas, who continue to randomly shoot at them.
Just this Sunday, five suspected illegal miners were found dead in what is believed to be a turf war in Riverlea, south of Johannesburg.
Residents have been calling for increased police visibility as they are living in fear.
Gauteng deputy police commissioner, Tommy Mthombeni says corruption remains a concern in dealing with illegal mining.
Mthombeni said, "I can confidently say to you, we are dealing with the issues of illegal mining.
"The crux of the matter is the man holes. We have to deal with the issue of the man holes, collectively so."
"You seal with holes, there will be no activity in the mines."
"The issue of corruption: yes, there is corruption of which we deal with… In terms of illegal mining, there’s 1, 2 and 3. The Hawks are dealing with issues on a higher level.”
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