Suspected illegal miner killed by rock

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A suspected illegal miner has died when a rock fell on him while mining chrome illegally on Tuesday at Atok, Bogalatladi Village in Limpopo.

Law enforcement in the area under Sekhukhune District confirmed that they are investigating an inquest docket following the incident.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said members were summoned to the scene after the rock fell on top of the man.

“On arrival they found the victim severely injured. He was certified dead on the scene by emergency services personnel.

“The deceased was identified as a 39-year-old male originally from Mozambique, investigations are still ongoing,” Col Ledwaba stated.

Police provincial commissioner, lieutenant general Thembi Hadebe, has warned communities to desist from participating in illegal mining activities as they are not only committing a serious crime but also putting their lives in danger.

Meanwhile, four suspects appeared before the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court Monday for alleged murder.

Pereko Mpaloane, 21, Mogadi Mpaloane, 25, Elias Mokoena, 22, and Njabulo Madhala, 22, are facing charges of assault and murder.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Josephine Rani said they received a complaint on Saturday about an unknown male who was badly assaulted at Walter Sisulu section.

“Our members swiftly rushed to the scene and upon arrival they found an African male lying motionless on the ground.

“The victim was assaulted by four suspects after he was found in one of the suspects’ yard.

“He managed to escape and ran to a nearby house where he broke the window of the house while seeking for help, and the owner of the house called for help thinking that someone was trying to break in,” she said.

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Sergeant Rani stated that the victim sustained injuries on his upper body and had blood stains on his chest. He was declared dead by emergency services personnel.

She added; “Through investigation, Zamdela detectives managed to arrest two suspects earlier that day while their two accomplices were arrested later on the same day.”

The case was remanded to Monday, October 2023 9, for a formal bail application.