JOHANNESBURG – Some illegal miners are still refusing to surface at Sheba’s gold mine in Barberton – stalling the return to normal operations.
At the same time legal miners say they fear for their safety.
Since last Friday, more than 500 illegal miners have been arrested during Operation Vala uMgodi.
READ: Illegal mining | Prisons overcrowded after over 500 arrests
Residents say zama zama activity is nothing new – and for many, it’s their only means of survival.
Police and mine owners have now stepped up security and restricted access.
But some in the community accuse mine management of turning a blind eye for years, and even enabling the illegal trade.
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