Three zama zamas were killed during a shootout with the police in Sabie, Mpumalanga, last night. According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhuli, the police and other law enforcement agencies were conducting routine patrols in the area of the New Village mining shaft when they were reportedly attacked by suspected illegal miners.

COP SHOT AND INJURED

Mdhluli said the report indicates that the miners fired shots at the police from different directions, resulting in the injury of a warrant officer from the K9 Unit who was shot in the leg. "In response, the law enforcement officers fired back and it was during this period that three alleged miners were fatally shot. Two AK-47 rifles as well as approximately 500 rounds of ammunition for AK-47 rifles were recovered at the crime scene. The injured member was taken to the hospital for medical treatment," Mdhluli said.

ZAMA ZAMAS MEAN BUSINESS

Mdhluli added that a case of attempted murder of the cop who was shot and injured is being investigated. "The Independent Police Investigative Directorate will lead the investigation concerning the circumstances surrounding this incident," he said. The acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has emphasised the importance of law enforcement officers always remaining vigilant whilst carrying out their daily duties. "From what has been collected at the crime scene, one can see that we are dealing with a serious situation whereby alleged illegal miners mean business. It is crucial that our members remain watchful at all times." Meanwhile, six more illegal miners have emerged from a shaft in Stilfontein, North West where some zama zamas have refused to resurface fearing arrests. So far, more than 1300 zama zamas have resurfaced and been arrested with most of them being illegal foreigners.