Zama-zamas kill man at Winkelhaak Mine

Police ask for residents’ cooperation in dealing with illegal mining in the area.

November 25, 2015

Sifiso Mathebula 1 minute read

EVANDER – A man was shot a week after motorists and Muzimuhle residents complained about Zama-zamas (illegal miners) in the area.

Mr Mtlalelapula Sibeko (39) was killed by unknown men at the Winkelhaak Mine on Saturday, 20 November.

It is alleged that he and his brother were mining illegally when a white Golf parked nearby.

Four armed man got out of the Golf and allegedly fired shots at Mr Sibeko.

They then fled in the car.

Mr Sibeko sustained shot wounds in the upper body.

Sgt Sibuso Mbuli, police spokesman, said no one has been arrested yet and the police are investigating.

“The regular shooting in the area must stop.

“We urge these people to stop the illegal activity.”

Sgt Mbuli said a community dialogue was hosted by Evander Police Station in October during which illegal mining was a burning issue.

It was said that illegal miners and illegal immigrants are allegedly given accommodation by residents who rent out rooms to them.

“We encouraged residents to stop giving room to people they do not know and those mining illegally.

“The station, the cluster and the province have conducted operations in an attempt to deal with this.”

November 25, 2015

Sifiso Mathebula 1 minute read