Illegal mining activities on Free State farmer’s land require urgent attention

AfriForum today made an urgent appeal to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to investigate and resolve the issue where a company illegally entered the land of a Free State farmer and already started mining.

According to Lambert de Klerk, manager for Environmental Affairs at AfriForum, the organisation requests in a letter to the Department to pay attention to the serious matter of illegal mining activities. These activities not only threaten and damage the environment, but also create an unfavourable environment for honest businesspeople and communities that follow the right processes and regulations.

“We cannot remain silent while these illegal practices continue. Its impact on our environment and our society as a whole is unacceptable,” says De Klerk. “It is crucial that the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy immediately begin a comprehensive investigation to establish the full extent of this issue and hold those who break the law accountable.”

AfriForum trusts that the Department will take the necessary steps to deal with this issue in a transparent and efficient manner. The organisation is determined to work with relevant government agencies to ensure an environment of honesty, responsibility and full compliance with legislation in the mining sector.

“We call on the Department to show strong leadership and take the necessary steps to fully investigate and end illegal mining activities,” emphasizes De Klerk.

AfriForum will monitor the situation and is ready to offer further support to maintain an environment of law and justice. “We believe in the importance of a responsible and sustained use of our natural resources for the current and future generations,” concludes De Klerk.