Zama zama wars affect residents in Pelzvale

Residents are living in fear due to regular shootouts taking place between illegal miners.

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Lien Lombaard described the situation as a warzone, stating they could hear the bullets flying by.

She noted the shooting occurs on a nearby farm and it is a weekly occurrence.

Willem Wentzel, another resident on the premises, explained recently that a stray bullet went through the window of one of the houses on the farm. There are currently eight houses on the premises and he noted the shooting occurs in the street in front of the premises.

There were so many shootings, it is not even strange to hear gunshots. We feel unsafe.

“My bedroom window is facing the street; I could be shot dead in my bed,” said Wentzel.

He added that it has also become too dangerous for the CPF to patrol in the area.

Further, Wentzel noted that aside from the shooting, the ground will eventually fall in due to the illegal mining activities in the area. He noted the stray bullets could easily kill someone and his tenants will eventually move away and they are his only source of income. This will then lead to him eventually having to let his workers go.

Hettie Uys, also a resident, added that they as residents will have to take measures to protect themselves, which will cost them money.

The police have not commented on the shootings at the time of publishing; as soon as comment is received, an update will be given.