GOOD Statement by Sam Shabane,
GOOD National Chairperson
7 July 2023
Our country is under siege by illegal miner. It is time for action not just promises.
GOOD is calling for a focus on how abandoned mines are treated. Mining companies are responsible for rehabilitating mines when they have finished their operations but this is clearly not being done.
17 people have tragically lost their lives in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni. While the cause of the incident is still being investigated, it has been linked to large-scale illegal mining in the area.
GOOD extends our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wish those in hospital a speedy recovery.
Last month, 31 people died in the same area after inhaling gas underground during an illegal mining operation.
In March, the GOOD party reported similar activities by zama zamas in Riverlea, Johannesburg. Communities are being terrorised by gun fights between warring operations. Including a shoot-out outside a primary school during a lunch break.
Mining houses need to be held responsible for abandoned mine shafts.
We need to curb illegal mining and protect the lives of our citizens.
Media Enquiries:
Sam Shabane, GOOD National Chairperson
Cell: 078 621 4042
Email: sams@forgood.org.za
Samantha Jackson, GOOD Acting Media Manager
Cell: 083 550 9875
Email: media@forgood.org.za