Gangs stealing cables miles underground torment SA platinum mines
Illegal mining has long been a problem in South Africa, though now thefts of equipment are becoming a major worry.
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Illegal mining has long been a problem in South Africa, though now thefts of equipment are becoming a major worry.
The country’s platinum giants are struggling to contain the syndicates of trespassers known as “zama zamas” — a Zulu name that means “take a chance.”
Enticed by high copper prices, thieves are sneaking in and stripping metal from power cables.
Impala Platinum looks like it has found a home for its sizeable cash hoard as Royal Bafokeng Platinum recommends shareholders accept its buyout offer.
Impala Platinum (Implats) saw production drop during the quarter ended September this year as the mining company grappled with an unstable power supply and labour problems at its flagship Rustenburg operations.