Article by: Dumisane Dube
Residents of KwaHlathi, in KwaZulu-Natal, have been celebrating as they believe they have just discovered a land of precious stones (diamonds).
It is reported that a herdsman who originates from Lesotho found a piece of diamond in the area.
Since the discovery, people are have come in numbers (some even from other provinces) in search of the precious stones.
The provincial government has expressed concerns about the activities and has asked the provincial Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs to refer the matter to the national Department of Minerals and Energy to do inspections at the site.
Provincial government spokesperson, Lennox Mabaso said the Department of Minerals and Energy (DMRE) has promised to dispatch teams to the site.
“These teams include the department’s enforcement and compliance unit to conduct an inspection of the site,” he added.
KZN Premier, Sihle Zikalala also expressed concerns over the “diamond discovery” situation happening in KZN, stating that the illegal mining activities could also be in violation of the Covid-19 regulations.
“It is very concerning that in the wake of the looming third wave, we have so many people gathered in one spot, not maintaining social distancing and not wearing masks,” added Zikala.
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