Chaos has erupted at the Mintails mine, situated between Krugersdorp and Randfontein, as illegal miners are stripping the place bare.
After the mine closed down a few months ago, a security company was tasked with keeping unwanted intruders out. They withdrew from the premises this week, citing financial issues.
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This has in turn given the zama-zamas, or illegal miners, an opportunity to come in and clean the place out.
During the weekend, the illegal miners started stripping the mine. On one of the videos in the News’ possession, a man said that they have been stealing the cables to get the copper. In another video, people can be seen cutting steel, and warning shots can be heard as a person drives past the mine.
The road that leads past the mine is apparently open and no police could be seen. Motorists are urged to avoid the area as shots are being fired throughout the day and the area is not safe.
The News has contacted various local police stations for comment and will follow up on this story.
