Latest news with #NomondeMnukwa
The Citizen
5 days ago
- The Citizen
Man shot dead during shootout between police and illegal miners in Riverlea
Man shot dead during shootout between police and illegal miners in Riverlea A 59-year-old man was shot and killed during a shootout between police and illegal miners in Riverlea. Government condemned the incident, which occurred on the evening of June 3, leaving one man dead and two others injured – a bystander and a police officer. The deceased was reportedly caught in the crossfire during an exchange of gunfire between police and three armed suspects. ALSO READ: Woman found killed in Lufhereng Daily Sun reported that the victim's body was discovered near the informal settlement on June 4. Acting Government Spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa expressed condolences to the victim's family and reiterated concerns about the escalating threat of illegal mining. 'This incident highlights the serious risk illegal mining poses – not only to law enforcement, but also to the safety and well-being of communities,' he said. Authorities have urged the public to report criminal activity and warned against vigilantism, calling for co-operation with law enforcement and adherence to legal processes. Law enforcement agencies were commended for ongoing operations targeting illegal mining, which threatens public safety and critical infrastructure. ALSO READ: Suspect killed, two in hospital and more arrested during shootout with police Government reaffirmed its commitment to preserving peace, upholding the rule of law, and protecting all South Africans. Investigations into the Riverlea incident are ongoing, and officials have vowed to dismantle illegal mining syndicates across the country. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The South African
5 days ago
- The South African
Government condemns Riverlea shootout linked to illegal mining
A tragic shootout between illegal miners and the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Riverlea, Johannesburg, has left a 59-year-old man dead, prompting national condemnation and calls for stronger community collaboration in tackling criminal activity. Police reportedly exchanged gunfire with three suspects at the Zamimpilo informal settlement when the man was caught in the crossfire and killed. His body was discovered in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The South African government has extended condolences to the victim's family and pledged its support for ongoing investigations. 'This incident demonstrates the severe threat that illegal mining poses, not only to law enforcement, but to the safety and well-being of communities,' said Acting Government spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa. Mnukwa called on community members to avoid taking the law into their own hands and instead work with police to address criminality. 'Community members are called to cooperate with authorities and report criminal activities taking place in their areas,' she said. Illegal mining, often associated with heavily armed syndicates, has plagued several parts of Johannesburg, including Riverlea. The violence accompanying these operations has frequently drawn attention from authorities and residents, with infrastructure damage and community safety being constant concerns. Residents in Riverlea have previously complained about the dangers posed by illegal miners, known locally as zama zamas, who operate in abandoned mines and informal settlements with minimal regard for public safety. Furthermore, law enforcement continues to intensify efforts to disrupt illegal mining networks in Johannesburg and beyond. The government has praised these efforts and reaffirmed its stance on maintaining order. 'Government commends the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to clamp down on illegal mining operations, which continue to pose serious threats to public safety and infrastructure,' Mnukwa added. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
