Mine owners also to blame for illegal mining crisis – SAHRC
The South African Human Rights Commission says it will approach government to discuss possible solutions around illegal mining activities.
Illegal miners, commonly referred to as zama zamas, have been in the spotlight since the gang rape of eight women at a mine dump in Krugersdorp in Gauteng.
READ: Heavy police presence in Kagiso amid community crackdown on zama zamas
On Thursday, disgruntled members of the local community in Kagiso took it upon themselves to hunt down miners without permits, sealing makeshift shafts and burning homes.
The commission's Wisani Baloyi says government's failed to keep its promise to regulate the illegal mining sector.
"Government has been speaking about regulating artisanal mining but has not done much in this regard."
ALSO READ: Calls for calm in protest-hit Kagiso
"Mine owners or former mine owners are also to blame for not rehabilitating and securing access to mining tunnels, dumps and the surrounding environment."
MORE ON ECR
