The Bekkersdal community has appealed to President Cyril Ramaphosa to deploy members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to curb illegal mining and escalating violence in the area.
The call follows the court appearance of five Lesotho nationals at the Westonaria Magistrate’s Court in connection with last week’s mass shooting at the Kwa-Noxolo Tavern, where ten patrons were killed and at least ten others injured.
Tensions ran high at court on Monday, with community members removed from the courtroom. The media was also instructed not to publish the identities of the suspects until an identity parade has been conducted.
Community leader Paseka Ndevu says residents continue to live in fear due to violence allegedly linked to illegal mining activities.
“There was an incident about two years ago in Mogale City Local Municipality where 19 teenage girls were raped,” Ndevu said, referring to the 2022 Krugersdorp case where eight models were raped by illegal miners.
“Those accused were arrested but are now out. So we are requesting President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Cabinet to deploy the army in Bekkersdal.”
Another resident, Mbulelo Koyana, called for stricter background checks on foreign nationals entering communities.
“We are not against our brothers and sisters from other countries,” Koyana said. “What we are saying is that government must establish a refuge camp where people can be verified before they are integrated into society.”
Police arrested eleven suspects following the tavern shooting, but only five have been formally charged so far. They face charges related to illegal possession of firearms, including an AK-47, a 9mm pistol, and ammunition.
The case is expected to continue on Tuesday, when the accused are set to apply for legal aid representation and may also bring a bail application.
