The escalating crisis of illegal mining in Gauteng has raised alarms over its direct correlation with rising crime levels, according to artisanal mining expert Kgothatso Nhlengetwa.
Speaking in a recent interview, Nhlengetwa highlighted that illegal mining is not just a law enforcement issue but a deeply entrenched syndicate-based activity, fueled by high unemployment and illegal immigration.
Crime and Illegal Mining: A Dangerous Nexus
Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile recently raised concerns over the surge in illegal mining operations, particularly in areas such as Langlaagte, Zamimpilo, Riverlea, Selby, Dobsonville, Roodepoort, Florida, and Cleveland.
Nhlengetwa confirmed that illegal mining is intrinsically linked to crime, stating, “Illegal mining is a syndicate-based activity. We see high unemployment, but also a significant presence of illegal immigrants involved in these operations.”
However, he emphasized that the visible “zama zamas” (illegal miners) are merely the lowest level of a vast criminal hierarchy. “The real kingpins sit in banks, corporates, and even within the political elite,” he warned.
Layers of the Illegal Mining Pyramid
Nhlengetwa outlined a five-tier structure behind illegal mining operations:
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Zama Zamas – Often trafficked from Lesotho, Mozambique, and Eswatini.
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Gold Buyers – Local traders purchasing gold and selling mercury.
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Gold Distributors – Businesses like “cash-for-gold” stores.
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Smelters – Key players who transition gold from illegal to legal markets.
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International Buyers – Where the gold ultimately ends up, often in places like Dubai.
“We don’t see where this gold ends up, but countries like Dubai, which have no gold deposits, are major exporters,” he noted.
Lack of Political Will and Enforcement Failures
When questioned about law enforcement shortcomings, Nhlengetwa pointed to political complicity. “There’s a lack of political will because people are benefiting. Even those in high law enforcement positions may be involved,” he alleged.
He called for a multi-departmental approach, involving Home Affairs (to tackle illegal immigration), Mineral Resources and Energy (to regulate abandoned mines), and law enforcement.
Formalizing Artisanal Mining: A Possible Solution?
While illegal mining dominates headlines, Nhlengetwa stressed that not all small-scale mining is illicit. He commended the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) for including artisanal mining in the 2025 MPRDA amendment but urged faster implementation.
“The policy is there, but we need practical support for cooperatives seeking legal permits without excessive bureaucracy,” he said.
A Deadly Trade
The dangers of illegal mining were tragically underscored by last year’s Still Fontaine mine incident, where dozens died—many of them teenage boys. Nhlengetwa warned that without systemic intervention, such tragedies will continue.
“This is not just a police matter. It’s a national crisis requiring collaboration across government, research institutions, and mining communities,” he concluded.
As Gauteng grapples with this growing menace, the question remains: Will authorities act decisively, or will the syndicates continue to thrive under the shadow of political and economic neglect?