The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Group Corporate and Shared Services, Sithembiso Zungu, together with relevant stakeholders from the City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality, conducted a site inspection at M2 Mooi Street as part of the City’s ongoing high-impact service delivery operations.
The operation was undertaken in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to address illegal mining activities, environmental violations and by-law contraventions within the inner city.
This joint intervention forms part of the City’s continued efforts to combat illegal mining operations, strengthen law enforcement and ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment. During the operation, three individuals were arrested in connection with suspected illegal mining activities.
Acting on intelligence received, the multi-disciplinary team also traced a location believed to be used by an alleged kingpin to refine gold linked to illegal mining operations. Working alongside SAPS and the Illegal Mining Task Team, officials proceeded to premises on Cornelious Street suspected of being used to purchase and refine gold sourced from illegal mining activities. All tools and equipment found at the site were confiscated as part of the investigation.
Authorities have reiterated that operations targeting illegal mining networks will continue and that those found to be involved will face the full might of the law.
During the inspection, the team assisted the City’s Environmental Health officials in addressing a separate site where cow heels and skins were being cleaned and cooked under extremely unhygienic and unsanitary conditions. The food produced at the site was reportedly being sold to residents in the inner city, posing a serious public health risk. Due to the unsafe conditions and health concerns, the site was shut down.
The City of Johannesburg remains committed to protecting communities, safeguarding natural resources and ensuring that all laws and municipal by-laws are upheld through coordinated enforcement and service delivery operations.
SUPPLIED.
