IN CONVERSATION WITH Amos Monyela, COSATU Provincial Chairperson.

COSATU Gauteng notes the successful operation by SAPS, SANDF and Sibanye Protection Services that resulted in the arrest of more than 150 suspected illegal miners at Kloof Mine in Westonaria. Illegal mining is a serious threat to workers, communities and the economy. It destroys infrastructure, threatens the safety of mineworkers, damages the environment and fuels organised crime. These criminal activities also result in significant financial losses that affect investment, employment and the country's ability to provide quality public services. COSATU supports decisive action against criminal syndicates that organise and profit from illegal mining. Law enforcement agencies must continue to target the kingpins who finance and coordinate these operations, rather than focusing only on those found underground. At the same time, government must address the root causes that push many people into illegal mining, including unemployment, poverty and weak border management. Sustainable job creation, skills development and economic opportunities remain the best long-term solution to prevent people from being drawn into criminal activities. COSATU calls on mining companies to strengthen security measures, work closely with law enforcement agencies and ensure that abandoned mine shafts are properly sealed to prevent illegal access. We urge the criminal justice system to ensure that those responsible for organising illegal mining syndicates are prosecuted successfully. Gauteng communities deserve safe neighbourhoods, secure workplaces and an economy that creates decent jobs instead of criminal opportunities. Instagram · Twitter