Riverlea residents protest against ongoing violence due to illegal mining activities

Residents of Riverlea, south of Johannesburg, took to the streets to protest the ongoing violence in the area due to illegal mining activities.

This follows the fatal shooting of five illegal miners during an alleged turf war between rival gangs over the weekend. Residents are now calling for urgent government intervention to end the scourge of illegal mining in their community. Police have opened a murder case.

Video: Police Minister Bheki Cele addresses Riverlea residents protest against illegal mining

Roads were barricaded with burning tyres, stones and other objects. The disgruntled residents say they’ve been under siege for too long. Residents say they’re left scrambling for cover every time rival gangs attempt to assert control over the mining settlement.

Video: Riverlea residents protest against illegal mining:

Another major concern is that the settlement lies atop a buried Transnet fuel pipeline and a major high-pressure water main. Metro police say many roads leading to Riverlea remain blocked.

Just last week, a community member who was walking home from work was killed, after allegedly being caught in the crossfire of a gang war. The community says it’ll continue with the protest action until government officials intervene.

Video: Riverlea residents protest against illegal mining: Willem Els