A gold rush has erupted in the informal settlement of Gugulethu, near Springs, South Africa, following reports of gold particles found in a cattle pen by a local resident. Dozens have flocked to the area, digging with pickaxes and shovels in hopes of striking it rich, reminiscent of the gold rush that once developed South Africa’s financial capital. The government, however, has condemned these actions as illegal mining, warning that it poses environmental risks and may lead to instability in the ground. This activity underscores the ongoing issues in South Africa related to illegal mining, involving so-called “zama zamas,” frequently associated with organized crime, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to announce the deployment of the army to combat such illegal operations.
South African Department of Mineral Resources condemns gold rush in Springs
