An area in KwaHlathi, near Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), has been invaded by scores of people who believe there are diamonds beneath the soil.
KZN issues warning to illegal diamond miners
Images and videos of people holding what looks like a precious stone, have spread on social media. Holders of these stones claim they are diamonds mined out of an area of land in KwaHlathi.
This, according to the KZN provincial government, has caused a frenzy, with scores of families from all corners of the country descending on the open veld in search of a fortune.
At this time, the provincial government noted in a statement released on Sunday, no official confirmation has been made on whether these stones are actual diamonds.
The Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, along with the Department of Minerals and Energy has assembled a team that will inspect the site and determine “what exactly are these items that have been discovered KwaHlathi.”
“We are deeply concerned about the images showing that some people coming from as far as some of the neighbouring provinces and towns are flocking into kwaHlathi. We are worried that if not brought under control the situation could result in chaos and a possible stampede. We call for order and calm and urge all those involved to cease their operations and vacate the site so as to allow the DMRE to conduct a proper inspection of the site and of what has been discovered there,” KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala noted.
Watch: Scores of hopefuls dig for diamonds in KwaHlathi
Even more worrying, the Premier added, was the threat this large gathering posed on the spread of COVID-19.
“It is also very concerning that in the wake of a looming third wave we have so many people gathered in one spot, not maintaining social distancing and also not wearing masks. This could prove to be a super-spreader and might put at risk many people including those who are not part of the mining,” the Premier added.
An activation plan has been put in place to stop the illegal mining and for regulatory measures to be taken to ensure the validity of these precious stones.
Whether holders of these rocks will claim any fortune from their hard work remains to be seen. Here’s footage of the KwaHlathi diamond rush:
KZN PREMIER CALLS FOR ORDER AMID REPORTS OF A “DIAMOND RUSH” IN KWAHLATHI NEAR LADYSMITH
— KZN Provincial Gov (@kzngov) June 13, 2021
The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has noted with concern, the reports of illegal mining activity taking place at KwaHlathi outside Ladysmith
Video : supplied #DiamondRush pic.twitter.com/zy1oyIhPQz