A family and local residents in Dannhauser have accused Ikhwezi Mining of conducting unauthorized exploration work on private land without proper consultation or consent. The affected landowners claim the company began drilling on their 500-hectare property last week, presenting only a one-page “notification” rather than seeking permission.
Allegations of Disregard for Landowners
According to the family, Ikhwezi Mining (also referred to as Equazi Mining in reports) allegedly stated that it did not require their consent because mineral rights beneath the land belong to the state. However, the landowners argue that the company failed to follow basic consultation protocols, including disclosing the scope of work, environmental risks, or mitigation measures.
“We feel disrespected,” said one family member. “They arrived with machinery, started drilling, and when the community protested, they returned with armed security.”
Community Concerns Over Environmental Impact
Residents raised multiple concerns, including:
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Lack of transparency – No clear explanation of the mining activities or potential hazards.
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Environmental damage – Reports of a nearby river turning red and grassland being contaminated by coal dust.
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Safety risks – Fears of veld fires due to dry conditions and unregulated drilling operations.
Local traditional leaders confirmed receiving similar complaints from other community members about Ikhwezi Mining’s operations in the area.
Mining Company’s Response Unclear
Ikhwezi Mining’s website lists operations in Dannhauser, including the Kliprand Colliery and Moyeni Coal Beneficiation Plant. However, the company has not yet publicly responded to the allegations.
Calls for Government Intervention
The family and community members are demanding accountability, urging authorities to intervene and halt the exploration until proper consultations and environmental assessments are conducted.
“We just want to be respected,” said a landowner. “If they’re going to dig up our land, they must at least tell us how it affects us.”
Efforts to reach Ikhwezi Mining for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
