MOKPANE – ON Wednesday morning, a group of angry protesters gathered outside Platreef Mine’s entrance to voice their disappointment with the mining rights awarded to the mine on 4 November by the department of mineral resources (DMR).
They blocked the entrance of the construction site of the proposed mine, threw stones and burned tires.
Glen Monyi, coordinator of the Mining Affected Communities United in action (MACUA) said the residents were prepared to die for their minerals.
“The communities of the surrounding areas are not satisfied with the fact that the mining right for Platreef has been approved by the DMR while still in negotiations with us.
“We are disappointed with Platreef for starting their mining process without properly consulting with us, as they have not consulted with the families in the relocation of the graves on site,” said Nhlanhla Rhangane, a community leader.
The protest ended through the intervention of the police’s public order police unit who fired rubber bullets to disperse the illegal and violent protesters.
Gerick Mouton, vice president and project director of Ivanplats, said Ivanplats has noted the recent protests outside the construction site. “The company is open to engagement with all stakeholders through the relevant channels aimed at empowering our host communities, sharing information and educating community members about the envisaged mine. The company remains committed to ensuring transparency and open engagement and looks forward to making a positive social and economic impact on the local Mokopane community,” he said.
“Ivanplats condemns this unlawful action. The company will pursue legal avenues in this regard and can confirm that Ivanhoe Mines staff had no involvement whatsoever in the police action.
“”Ivanhoe Mines is confident that the overwhelming majority of people in our host communities support the Platreef Project.”
An in-depth article will follow in the next issue of Bosveld on December 4.
