Illegal Mining Crackdown: Over 500 Arrests and Counting in Barberton

The clampdown on illegal mining in Barberton, Mpumalanga, is gaining serious momentum after hundreds of zama zamas were brought up from underground while, another 24 suspects have been arrested, pushing the total to over 500. Most of those arrested face charges including the contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa, as well as other charges in relation to illegal mining and trespassing. Police are still verifying the exact numbers and working to bring more suspects to the surface. Operation Vala Umgodi continues with backup from mine security and the Department of Minerals and Energy. Phemelo speaks to mining expert David van Wyk and provincial safety spokesperson Moeti Mmusi about the impact and what’s next.