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馃嚳馃嚘The Citizen路46 mins ago
Over 150 illegal miners arrested at Kloof Mine in joint operation
More than 150 illegal miners, referred to as zama-zamas, were arrested on July 7 during Operation Prosper at Sibanye-Stillwater's Kloof mine. This joint operation involved the South African Police Service SAPS, the South African National Defence Force SANDF, and Sibanye Protection Services. The SAPS stated that the action aimed to combat illegal mining and transnational crime in the area, identifying Kloof mine as a hotspot for such activities.
18 min read
馃嚳馃嚘The Citizen路1 hour ago
Fentonia coal mine reopens as Asure Colliery, creating 120 direct jobs and 700 broader opportunities in Mpumalanga
The Fentonia Coal Mine, closed in 2018, has reopened as Asure Colliery under Asure Resources, bringing economic opportunities and approximately 150 jobs to Kriel and surrounding areas in Mpumalanga. Asure Resources chief executive Emmanuel Ngulube stated the project has a broad transformation framework, with 50% youth and black representation on its board and 80% women in its group operations workforce. The reopening has already created over 120 direct jobs in various sectors, with expectations for this number to grow significantly. The broader value chain is projected to support up to 700 employment opportunities through contractors, suppliers, and other industries. Ngulube emphasized that the project aims to stimulate demand for transport, engineering services, and other businesses, while also empowering future leaders through investments in engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, and digital technologies. The mine, a former Eskom-approved supplier, is strategically positioned to support South Africa's long-term energy security. While Carolina community forum chair Makhaza Ntuli welcomed the reopening, she urged the new mine to prioritize local employment and engage with communities, noting that local authorities often fail to inform residents about new mines.
2 min read
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馃嚳馃嚘The Citizen路15 hours ago
Malema responds to Madlanga commission allegations, questions authenticity of WhatsApp chats
EFF leader Julius Malema has formally responded to allegations linking him to senior Crime Intelligence official Feroz Khan, though the Madlanga commission has not yet indicated if he will be summoned to testify. The inquiry resumed on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, focusing on WhatsApp exchanges between Khan and alleged tobacco smuggler Mohammedh Sayed, which suggest a relationship involving Malema. Evidence presented indicates the trio allegedly worked together to remove former Inspector General of Intelligence Selumanthuro Dintwe. The messages also suggest Malema may have received sensitive information from Khan, including the identity of a VBS Mutual Bank curator, and supported Khan in avoiding disciplinary action for financial misconduct. Malema's potential involvement in procurement matters, such as a South African Police Service fleet management tender, was also raised, with a company named Bertobrite referenced in connection to "Juju." Malema submitted an affidavit addressing these claims and questions about his relationship with Carnilinx CEO Adriano Mazzotti. He acknowledged Mazzotti donated R600,000 to the EFF for party registration and clarified that his wife resided in the same complex precinct as Mazzotti under a lease agreement, denying media reports of gratuitous stays. Malema distanced himself from the WhatsApp conversations, stating he cannot confirm their authenticity and that his response is limited to claims within his personal knowledge. He explained that as an
3 min read