Panyaza Lesufi Calls for Stronger Measures to Tackle the Threat Posed by Illegal Miners*
19 August 2023
In a passionate plea aimed at tackling the growing challenge posed by illegal miners, known as Zama Zamas, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has requested President Cyril Ramaphosa’s assistance in a resolute effort to bring an end to their illicit activities. Speaking to an enthusiastic audience of ANC party members in the Johannesburg Region today, Saturday 19 August, Lesufi called for a unified front involving law enforcement agencies to restore order and safety to the province.
The call to action came as part of the National Working Committee’s (NWC) visit to various regions, with party officials taking a firsthand look at the prevailing issues faced by communities. Lesufi’s message resonated deeply with the crowd, as he highlighted the urgent need for decisive measures to confront the rampant Zama Zama phenomenon.
“We need fire power, my president. We need the army, we need police intelligence, we need the police force to go down into those particular holes, let the last man standing be the survivor of the war,” Lesufi proclaimed passionately. The crowd’s enthusiastic cheers and nodding heads underscored the severity of the issue at hand and the necessity of the proposed actions.
Lesufi’s concerns were not unfounded. He highlighted the Zama Zamas’ alarming level of armament and their audacious disregard for the presence of government authority. “These Zama Zamas are armed to the teeth. They are doing as they wish, as if there is no government,” he stated unequivocally, a sentiment that resonated deeply with those in attendance.
Addressing the President directly, Lesufi implored, “Please assist us, unleash the fire power that this country can demonstrate.” The urgency of his plea echoed the desperation felt by countless residents and citizens who have been directly impacted by the brazen actions of the illegal miners.
Recent days have seen the Gauteng province grappling with the destabilizing effects of these unlawful mining activities. Not only have the Zama Zamas compromised the safety of innocent residents living in proximity to the mines, but they have also challenged the very fabric of law and order within the region.
As the province seeks solutions to this pressing issue, Premier Lesufi’s impassioned call for intervention from President Ramaphosa reflects the collective demand for effective measures. The success of these efforts will undoubtedly depend on the collaborative actions of law enforcement agencies, the government, and the citizens themselves, working in unison to restore safety, security, and normalcy to the affected communities.
#ANCNWC @AncGauteng chair @Lesufi asks President @CyrilRamaphosa to assist the prov gov and law enforcement agencies "to unleash the fire power" in fighting Zama Zamas. He's been addressing party structures of @ANCJHB. The NWC led by party officials is visiting all regions. #eNCA pic.twitter.com/gYb6iAGXc5
— Siphamandla Goge (@SiphamandlaGoge) August 19, 2023
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