Police have launched an investigation into the fatal shooting of five men whose bodies were discovered at an open-cast mine in Tlhatlaganyane Village, near Sun City, authorities said Monday.
Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, spokesperson for the South African Police Service in North West, confirmed that a multi-disciplinary team is on the scene to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding the killings. “The police will conduct an extensive investigation to ensure that those responsible are identified and arrested,” Mokgwabone said.
The area is known for illegal mining activities and has previously drawn attention from South Africa’s National Parliament, with visits from the Portfolio Committees on Police, Home Affairs, and Minerals following complaints, including from the local tribal authority. However, Mokgwabone cautioned against speculation, stating, “It cannot at this point be speculated or ruled out that the killings are linked to rival mining operations.”
Investigators are working to identify the deceased and establish their reasons for being at the site. “All clues and leads are going to be investigated, including the identity of the deceased and the reasons for them being on the site before they were shot and killed,” Mokgwabone added.
The police have urged anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.