Minister Ntshaveni’s Remarks on ‘Smoking Out’ Trapped ‘Zama Zamas’ Illegal Miners Sparks Controversy
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshaveni’s recent remarks about the handling of over 4,500 illegal miners, or ‘zama zamas’, trapped in Stilfontein’s abandoned mines have sparked controversy.
The miners, reportedly stuck underground without food or water due to government restrictions, face an uncertain fate as Minister Ntshaveni stated that they will “smoke them out.”
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Minister Ntshaveni Stands Firm: No Aid for Trapped ‘Zama Zamas
Addressing the media after last week’s Cabinet meeting, Minister Ntshaveni made it clear that the government will not provide any aid to the miners, who have been cut off from basic supplies as part of Operation Vala Mgodi.
Minister Ntshaveni’s Remarks on ‘Smoking Out’ Trapped ‘Zama Zamas’ Stirs Controversy (Image Credit: News24)When asked about the government’s stance, Ntshaveni stated firmly that they are going to smoke them out.
“We are not sending any help to criminals. We are going to smoke them out. They will come out,” she said.
She underscored that the government’s role is not to assist those engaged in unlawful activities.
“We didn’t send them there. They didn’t go down there for the benefit or good intentions of the Republic, so we can’t help. Those who want to help them must go and take the food down there. They will come out and we will arrest them,” she retorted.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
The Minister’s uncompromising remarks have spurred mixed reactions across social media. Many South Africans supported her approach, arguing that the ‘zama zamas’, often linked to criminal activities, pose a danger to communities and should face consequences.
They contended that the government’s firm stance is a necessary measure to curb illegal mining and associated criminality.
Here are some of the reactions;
@PSAFMophiring;
It’s about time the government takes tougher action against criminals. Yes, please Minister smoke them out @PresidencyZA
@Funzi_Ngobeni;
Way to go Minister. This is the only language terrorists understand. #Sikhathele…Yes I agree with her 100% smoke them fakas out.
@Shady_Lurker;
“This woman is a Hero 💪🏽🏆🇿🇦
Just like that!! Fusek! Beba’Funani lapha phansi? Actions have consequences. They made the decision to go underground to illegally mine in an area that has been abandoned FOR THE VERY REASON that they’re stuck there now : It’s NOT SAFE!!
And now they’re stuck.
It’s consequence time. Phuma ngendlela ningene ngayo! 🤝🏽
Well done wena o’Lady !”
@GaytonMcK;
Thank you Minister @Khu_Ntshavheni let there be smoke, lots of smoke 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
@Buhlethefirst;
I support this.
These illegal miners have no good intention for this country or its people and they’ve made it very clear on numerous occasions.
When faced with ki1ling us to get what they want, they never hesitate. Why must we?
Do what must be done, Minister.
Social Media Users Criticize Minister Ntshaveni
However, others criticized Ntshaveni’s remarks, describing them as “inhumane” and lacking compassion.
The critics emphasized that, regardless of their legal status, the ‘zama zamas’ are still human beings who deserve basic humanitarian assistance. Some expressed concern that the government’s actions could lead to avoidable suffering and potentially fatal outcomes for those underground and that it would be a violation of human rights.
@helenzille;
Come on. The Minister is talking about human beings here. People facing a perilous life-threatening calamity must be rescued. Arrest and prosecute them for breaking the law. But don’t leave them to perish in horrific circumstances. What happened to Ubuntu?
@chrisyelland;
In my view, this kind of talk from the Minister in the Presidency is disgraceful and dangerous hate speech.
@visse_ss;
So, the government turns its back on humanity because of legal status? Aren’t lives worth saving, regardless of citizenship or legality? Feels like we’re losing our own humanity in the process