Political parties in Gauteng have condemned what they describe as a deepening humanitarian and security crisis in the Sporong informal settlement in Randfontein, west of Johannesburg, following violent attacks allegedly carried out by illegal miners.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng and the African Transformation Movement (ATM) say residents have been subjected to intimidation, terror and forced displacement by heavily armed foreign nationals, commonly known as zama-zamas.
This follows a Newsnote report earlier this week highlighting the growing crisis in the area.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the EFF Gauteng said it had taken note, “with serious concern”, of the worsening conditions faced by residents of the Sporong informal settlement in the West Rand District.
“The crisis arises from violent intimidation, terror and forced displacement carried out by illegal miners,” the party said.
According to the EFF, more than 600 residents have been forced to flee their homes and are currently seeking temporary shelter at the Randgate Boxing Club community hall.
The party said the displacement follows months of sustained violence, harassment, imposed curfews and threats directed at community members, particularly women and children.
“The EFF is aware that women and children are the primary targets of these criminal elements, with at least eight women reported to have been victims of sexual assault in January 2026 alone,” the statement said.
The EFF believes the violence intensified from December 2025 and is linked to violent turf wars between rival zama-zama gangs fighting for control over abandoned mine shafts and illegal mining operations in the area.
“Residents, many of whom have lived in Sporong for more than 20 years, were forced to abandon their homes and belongings in a desperate attempt to escape brutal attacks,” the party said, adding that the violence was not random but highly organised criminal activity enabled by state neglect.
ATM national spokesperson Zama Ntshona also condemned the situation, describing the displacement of families as deeply troubling.
“It is unacceptable that women and children are forced to flee their homes due to threats of violence and kidnapping,” Ntshona said.
He criticised what he called the lack of intervention by law enforcement and security agencies, warning that the failure to protect citizens raised serious concerns about national security.
The ATM called on government to take immediate action, including deploying law enforcement to affected areas, supporting displaced families and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
Both parties urged authorities to provide urgent humanitarian assistance, warning that overcrowding at the Randgate community hall poses serious health risks.
“We must reject violence and work towards a society where every individual can live without fear,” the ATM said.
