Outrage after police halt Indwe small-scale coal mining

Indwe, Eastern Cape — A local organisation has called for community support and dialogue after small-scale coal mining activities in the Indwe area were reportedly halted during a recent police operation.

The QaMaTa Ancestral Science Institute issued a public notice inviting community members, organisations and stakeholders to stand in solidarity with small-scale coal miners in the area whose operations were closed.

According to the institute’s statement, the shutdown of the mining activities followed a police operation that the organisation claims was carried out following instructions from Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Gwede Mantashe.

Organisation Raises Concerns

In its public notice, the QaMaTa Ancestral Science Institute said the small-scale mining activities in Indwe have been known to government structures for many years.

The organisation stated that, in the past, miners had been guided to work within government processes and structures. It argues that the recent closure of the operations took place without sufficient consultation or engagement with those involved.

The institute further said it believes the mining activities should not be classified as illegal mining, stating that the miners have historically operated openly within the community.

According to the statement, the operations have been known to local authorities, including the Emalahleni Local Municipality and the regional office of the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).

Impact on Local Livelihoods

The organisation said small-scale coal mining has become a significant source of income for many households in the Indwe area.

According to the institute, several families rely on the activity for their livelihoods. The organisation also claims that income generated from the work has helped some young people in the community pursue and complete their studies.

It said the closure of the mining activities has caused financial strain for those who depend on the work.

Petition and Community Engagement

The QaMaTa Ancestral Science Institute said it plans to organise a petition that will be escalated to the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy.

Among the issues the organisation wants addressed are a review of fines issued to trucks during the operation, possible reimbursement where appropriate, and compensation for coal that may have been lost during the shutdown.

The institute also called on non-profit organisations, civic bodies, faith-based institutions and other community organisations to participate in constructive engagement around the matter.

Call for Peaceful Dialogue

The organisation said its aim is to encourage peaceful dialogue and constructive engagement rather than confrontation.

Community members and stakeholders interested in participating in discussions or the petition process have been encouraged to contact the institute through its communication channels.

Authorities have not yet publicly responded to the claims contained in the notice.

Komani News has not independently verified the claims contained in the public notice.