The illegal mining of sand in the Komati River has been an ongoing issue for many years. Corridor Gazette has reported on the issue numerous times.

“Since the DMRE’s feedback in March, further investigations were undertaken at the site on April 22 and May 13. During these visits the river was full to capacity, and no mining activities were observed, nor were any persons found at the site. The only materials found were a few unverifiable broken-down pieces of machinery,” said the DMRE spokesperson, Solomon Phetla.

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Although operations have been unsuccessful thus far, the department said it will not slack down on its investigations. It has called for the participation from members of the public to assist it.

“The DMRE will continuously monitor the area and take the appropriate action necessitated by the findings against any perpetrators,” Phetla said.

“Having established and advised that there are no permits or rights granted in the Komati River area, and in proximity to the site, any person who sees mining activity taking place in the area is advised and encouraged to immediately notify the local police station for action to be taken without delay.”

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The DMRE is one part of the task team that oversees the investigations into illegal sand mining. Other members of the team include the Inkomathi-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA), the SAPS, the Department of Water and Sanitation and the Department of Home Affairs.

“Regarding the studies that need to be undertaken, the DMRE is working with IUCMA, which is the appropriate authority that can provide financial assistance for the undertaking of these studies. The DMRE is willing to engage with IUCMA and other stakeholders that can provide solutions to the challenges faced.”