Community-led Animal Welfare (Claw), already under siege by hordes of illegal miners that are operating in their midst, faced yet another calamity.

According to Claw founder Cora Bailey, the facility has been without running water for years and has been receiving regular water deliveries via a truck that fills up their water holding tanks.

On February 22, the driver of the truck misjudged their entrance and badly damaged the gate, leaving them exposed.

“The transport company’s driver should be held responsible for the cost of repair, but the reality is that it is beyond his means,” Bailey said.

“The zama zamas operating literally outside our premises are bound to see this as an opportunity to get easy access to our water, and we cannot allow that, as the animals in our care depend on it,” she said.

Illegal mining has been rife in Durban Deep for years. Claw reported late last year that the notorious miners have even taken to digging inside their premises, right in front of their staff quarters.

“We were able to put a stop to that, but the peace is quite fragile, and we are trying to avoid any further temptation.”

Since the miners require water to wash the gold-bearing material, which they remove from the ground.

“The damage to our gate is such that we can’t close it, which leaves our water tankers vulnerable, especially at night.

“With our main security barrier now damaged, the zamas zamas can easily gain access to our water tanks, which will put a strain on our water supply.”

Bailey has urged community members and local companies to come to their assistance.

“Any help to repair or replace the broken entrance gate will be greatly appreciated,” she pleaded.

If you would be willing to donate toward, or to help repair or replace the gate, contact Bailey on 082 926 3627.

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