Armed illegal miners overrun R462m land reform project in South Africa

A R462 million land reform project in South Africa’s North West Province has descended into crisis after armed illegal miners reportedly took control of the site, halting both agricultural and mining activities.

The 1,923-hectare Skeerpoort property, acquired under a government-supported land restitution initiative for the Khutso Naketsi Communal Property Association (CPA), was intended to serve as a flagship model for community empowerment and inclusive land ownership.

However, according to community member Thabang Seipati, the project has been overrun by an estimated 450 illegal miners, locally known as zama-zamas, some of whom are reportedly armed with high-powered weapons. The situation has disrupted operations and raised serious security concerns.

Efforts by the CPA to revive the project through a partnership with Lifelong Resources Minerals—focusing on legal gold prospecting across 450 hectares—have been stalled. The initiative was expected to generate revenue and stimulate economic activity in the area.

Instead, illegal mining activities have led to the destruction of infrastructure and environmental degradation, undermining both agricultural production and mineral development plans.

In response, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), has launched an intervention under Operation PROSPER to restore order.

Major General Godfrey Thulare, General Officer Commanding of the Joint Operational Headquarters, has conducted an on-site inspection as part of efforts to strengthen the operation’s tactical response.

Authorities say the operation aims to dismantle illegal mining networks, secure the land, and enable the project to resume its intended role in advancing land reform and community development.