Zama zamas a step ahead despite DMRE's R1.8m injection to seal shafts

JOHANNESBURG - Millions spent by the government to seal mining shafts in Riverlea, south of Joburg, have hardly made a dent in illegal mining operations in the area.

This is because illegal miners, referred to as zama zamas, have gained access to previously sealed shafts in the area by simply digging new holes just metres away.

Last year, Riverlea made headlines following a string of shootings between rival zama zama gangs who left the community fearing for their lives.

While the shootings between rival zama zama gangs have subsided, illegal mining activities remain rife in the area.

Large groups of zama zamas are regularly sighted moving around the community.

Last year, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) set aside R1.8 million to seal 24 mining shafts in the area.

Cedric Ortel of the Riverlea mining forum said DMRE’s efforts haven’t stopped the zama zamas.

"We discovered that not even seven days after the capping took place, they already started diggin here."

He said the money the government used for the closure of the shafts was wasted because the job wasn’t done properly.

"If you cap here today, they’re definitely going to dig right here where you’ve closed up. They say they capped 20 metres deep underground, for a group of zamas of eight, three days and they’re right past your capping."

Eyewitness News previously reported that the now liquidated company, Central Rand Gold, was meant to be held responsible for rehabilitating the area but has not.