Community safety, security and liaison MEC Jackie Macie has escalated illegal mining violence to military authorities following the discovery of a second suspected illegal miner’s body on the R539 today, October 1.

ALSO READ: Schoemanskloof Road closed again after second body found amid illegal mining shoot-out

The road was closed for a third time this week after several shooting incidents. Another man’s body was found yesterday, September 30, close to Mashoboto Hill.

Police confirmed that live rounds of ammunition, shell casings and an empty AK-47 magazine were discovered at the scene.

Body found hanging on fence

According to police, the deceased is a 28-year-old man who was found hanging on a barbed-wire fence with multiple gunshot wounds. The discovery of his body follows extensive gunfire last night after 18:00.

Motorists waited more than five hours before the road was reopened.

Military intervention requested

In a media briefing at the scene, Macie told residents to ‘relax’ and said the situation is under control, noting that the chief commander of the SANDF had been asked to intervene.

Rival shootings terrify community

Despite the MEC’s reassurance, Mashobotho residents remain concerned about illegal miners, known as zama zamas, carrying out rival shootings close to their homes.

“We are scared and fear that our loved ones are in danger,” one resident told Lowvelder.

Truck drivers transporting cargo told Lowvelder at the scene that the delay significantly affects their livelihoods.

ALSO READ: VIDEO: Renewed gunfire forces another Schoemanskloof R539 temporary closure

Brigadier Donald Mdhlululi added that police will continue to monitor the area to ensure that motorists and residents are safe. 

The road has since been opened and is safe for motorists to travel.