MBOMBELA- Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Mr Jackie Macie, has condemned in the strongest terms the alleged shooting incident involving suspected illegal miners (zama-zamas) in the Mashoboto area, which led to the temporary closure of the N4 Toll Road at Schoemanskloof on Tuesday morning, 29 September 2026. The closure affected traffic in both directions and caused major delays for motorists.
MEC Macie said road closures of this nature are unacceptable as they inconvenience road users, disrupt business and create fear. "Road closures are bad for business and bad for tourism. We cannot allow such barbaric acts to thrive. They tarnish the image of our province, discourage potential investors and instil fear in our communities," said MEC Macie. He has also noted the discovery of a body of a man this morning, saying law enforcement must relentlessly pursue those responsible for the tragedy.
The MEC commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for ongoing operations against illegal mining, including Operation Vala Umgodi and Operation Shanela, but called for intensified action. "We must vigorously pursue all those involved in illegal mining throughout the province. We must arrest not only the zama-zamas on the ground, but also the kingpins behind these operations, regardless of who they are. Our people deserve to live in peace," he said.
MEC Macie further warned that illegal mining is unlawful and has serious consequences, including environmental degradation, pollution and threats to agriculture and food security. Those interested in mining must follow legal processes through the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.
He reassured communities that the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster is working through intelligence-driven operations to stamp out illegal mining-related criminality and urged the public to continue assisting law enforcement.
Communities are urged to report any suspicious activity anonymously via the Crime Stop Hotline on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
ENDS...
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison
Media enquiries:
Moeti Mmusi Contacts: 079 291 0664 / 084 411 3372 or Mandla Chauke (Media Liaison Officer to the MEC) Contacts; 082 330 8167
