Government proposes tougher penalties for illicit mining

Government is moving to strengthen the law against illicit mining, with the new General Mining Laws Amendment Bill proposing tougher penalties and making illicit mining a specific criminal offence. While the changes have been welcomed, concerns remain about how they will affect vulnerable zama zamas and communities affected by illegal mining. Phemelo speaks to mining expert David Van Wyk about the proposed legislation and whether tougher laws can curb the crisis.