Police Minister Senzo Mchunu visits Stilfontein for talks with leaders on illegal mining

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has arrived in Stilfontein, North West, to address the ongoing conflict between law enforcement and illegal miners. This marks his second visit to the area in the past two weeks.

Earlier, Mchunu met with local authorities and community leaders as part of Operation Vala Umgodi, an initiative aimed at curbing illegal mining activities. Today, he is holding a roundtable discussion with community leaders and activists to discuss the situation further.

The minister is currently in closed-door meetings with provincial officials, local authorities, and mining experts involved in the ongoing rescue operation. This meeting will give him a full update on the team’s efforts since their appointment.

Operation Vala Umgodi has stirred controversy, particularly for its strategy of cutting off food, water, and medical supplies to illegal miners underground, a move designed to force them to surface. This approach has faced criticism and legal challenges.

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the Council of Churches are expected to comment on the matter later today. The SAHRC had already initiated an investigation into police actions about two weeks ago.Meanwhile, community members and family members of the miners underground have started gathering in the area.