Traffic backed up along the N4 near Schoemanskloof after the road was temporarily closed following reports of a shooting involving suspected illegal miners. | Photo: Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison.
Two bodies have been recovered in the Mashobote area near Schoemanskloof following suspected violence between rival illegal-mining groups.
The incidents follow reports of a shooting on Tuesday, 29 September, which led to the temporary closure of the N4 in both directions and caused major traffic delays.
Police said bloodstains were found in the area, along with two live rounds and an empty AK-47 magazine.
Police and forensic teams attend a scene near the N4 at Mashobote, where a man’s body was recovered as investigations into suspected illegal-mining violence continued. | Photo: Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison.
On Wednesday, 30 September, the body of an unidentified man was discovered in the same area. Police said they could not rule out a possible link to the previous day’s shooting and suspected illegal-mining activity.
A second body was recovered alongside the N4 at about 06:00 on Thursday, 1 October.
According to SAPS, the man had multiple gunshot wounds, while rifle and pistol cartridges were found at the scene. Police suspect the murder may be linked to an ongoing conflict between rival groups of illegal miners.
Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie condemned the violence and the disruption caused by the N4 closure, calling for intensified action against illegal mining.
Police have increased visibility in the area while investigations continue.