NELSPRUIT – Four illegal miners died after a fight broke out on Saturday, 29 May 2021, at Transvaal Gold Mining Estate in Dientjie, near, Graskop. Their bodies were retrieved this afternoon and a suspect is due to appear before the Graskop Magistrate’s Court soon.

According to information, a fight broke out between two groups of illegal miners and four men were killed in the process, their bodies dumped in a mine shaft. Another victim was severely assaulted and taken to hospital for medical treatment.  Police were then informed about the killings and through their short probe, they were quick to discover that the man at hospital was actually involved in the whole saga. The suspect was then arrested and currently under police guard at hospital. As soon as he recover from his injuries, he will make an appearance before court.

Previously, several incidents of unauthorised digging of minerals were reported where suspects were arrested and their cases are before various courts throughout the province.

The police have on several occasions warned people and urged them not to engage in illegal mining activities. Major General Thulani Phahla, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga has strongly condemned the incident and ordered for the arrest of the outstanding suspects responsible for the senseless killing. 

“This incident has shown once again the dangers of unlawful and unauthorised mining which often put the lives of those involved at risk.” said General Phahla.

Police urge anyone with information on the whereabouts of the outstanding suspects to contact Detective Warrant Officer Levy Mashilo at 0826633931 or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

Source: South African Police Service