WATCH: Another alleged illegal mining gunfight closes R539 in Schoemanskloof
Motorists traveling through Mpumalanga have been urged to divert via Elands Valley following gunfire along the R539.
Another altercation involving illegal mining groups erupted in Schoemanskloof, Mpumalanga, on Tuesday, disrupting traffic on the R539 toll road, according to local reports. The conflict escalated again on Wednesday, leading to the road's temporary closure once more. An unidentified individual suspected of being an illegal miner was discovered deceased along the road.
Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the area and follow diversion instructions. Lowveld Farm Watch's Danie du Buisson explained that illegal miners are utilizing high-calibre weapons, and the ongoing power struggle between various factions has intensified the situation. The land is under the management of a Communal Property Association, but internal divisions within the organization have contributed to the instability.
Mpumalanga's Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Jackie Macie condemned the violence, emphasizing the negative impact on business, tourism, and community morale. She called for comprehensive government and military intervention to address the root causes of the issue, including environmental degradation and threats to agriculture and food security.
The South African Police Service's ongoing operations against illegal mining, such as Operation Vala Umgodi and Operation Shanela, were commended, but Macie emphasized the need for intensified efforts to apprehend both the miners and their leaders. The department stressed the importance of adhering to legal procedures through the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and communities were urged to report suspicious activities anonymously through designated channels.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
