Zama zamas operating across Springs, but not at Wit Road off-ramp
Ward councillor Mike du Toit said cable thieves, not illegal miners, are behind underground activity near the N17 off-ramp but warns of growing zama zama operations across other parts of the area.
Following a report by the SaferCity team last Thursday about possible underground activity at the N17 East and Wit Road off-ramp, ward councillor Mike du Toit told the Springs Advertiser that no illegal mining is taking place in that area.
He explained that the issue at the Wit Road off-ramp is the result of a gang of cable thieves who have found access to a series of underground tunnels. This has led to two cable theft incidents since June 29.
Du Toit said the thefts have caused serious electricity outages affecting parts of Nuffield and parts of Selection Park North.
'Losses to the industry have been very serious, and energy stakeholders and the private sector are looking at ways and means to secure the area,' he said.
ALSO READ: Ex-Apartheid cop from Springs jailed 15 years for Caiphus Nyoka's murder
He confirmed that illegal mining is taking place alongside the N17 further up, behind the old Nigel rail line, near the N17 Hospital and Pollak Park Golf Course, as well as further down behind Fulcrum.
Du Toit added that while there is currently no reason to believe the N17 is under direct threat, the nature of zama zama operations could eventually pose a risk to road infrastructure. He also noted that illegal mining is occurring behind Daggafontein and the Mega City site.
'The police are well aware of these operations and conduct periodic raids wherever there are known illegal mining activities.
'However, these activities are extensive and span the entire Main Reef area, stretching from here to Klerksdorp,' said du Toit.
ALSO READ: Ekurhuleni aware of exposed cables in Casseldale, repairs planned
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