The Democratic Alliance (DA) is demanding the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry into operations at Buffelsfontein Mine in Stilfontein, North West, following a surge in illegal mining activities.
Since August last year, at least 907 illegal miners—commonly known as zama zamas—have resurfaced at the abandoned mine, with 78 fatalities reported. The DA argues that an inquiry is necessary to investigate the root causes of the crisis and assess the state’s failure to curb illegal mining operations.
Meanwhile, the African Transformation Movement (ATM) has called for government accountability over the rising death toll. ATM spokesperson Zama Ntshona criticized authorities for failing to address key issues contributing to illegal mining, including unrehabilitated mines and lax border controls.
"It is the government that has not dealt with the issue of unrehabilitated mines. It’s the government that has not addressed porous borders. The majority of those rescued from underground are in the country illegally," said Ntshona.
The ATM maintains that both the government and the zama zamas should be held responsible. "These two factors point to negligence by the government in ensuring that South Africa and its mineral resources are protected," Ntshona added.
The crisis at Buffelsfontein Mine highlights the growing challenge of illegal mining in South Africa, which continues to pose safety risks, economic threats, and security concerns.