Securing South Africa’s mining sector has always been an uphill task, given the complex and advanced security threats facing the industry. The problems not only affect mining companies but also disrupt the lives of workers, local communities, and the national economy as a whole. The intersection of technology, policy, and human factor is key to conquering the problems. Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine (SBPM), located in Limpopo Province, is a shining example of a mine that has risen to these challenges head-on. SBPM extracts platinum group metals and chrome products and employs over 7,000 workers, including contractors. As a 100% black-owned mine with nearly 30% ownership by the surrounding Bakgatla community, SBPM is grounded in a deep sense of commitment to its employees’ health and well-being, as well as to its broader community.
Hope Tyira, SBPM’s Group Executive Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, stated that of the myriad of security challenges facing South African mining companies, SBPM had been worst affected by copper theft syndicates. These criminals access the underground mines through declines and holes, even establishing underground hideouts where they remain for months. They remove electrical cables and prepare copper for illegal removal, causing severe disruption to mining operations. These thefts can have debilitating financial consequences. In 2022, for instance, SBPM lost R8 million within a span of two days due to copper theft. While illicit mining or “Zama-zamas” has long been an acute issue for gold mines, platinum mines such as SBPM are also being severely affected, albeit in different ways. One of the greatest security risks to SBPM is copper theft, and surface holes worsen this situation. Such an event happened in 2023 when copper was abandoned underground after thieves became stranded with no food. In this case, SBPM was able to apprehend several suspects, who were then handed lengthy prison sentences.
Due to these persistent security risks, SBPM has made significant investments in the latest security features. After thorough research and benchmarking against other mining companies, the company reassessed its security strategy and improved tremendously. This includes the acquisition of surveillance cameras and artificial intelligence-based video management software that allows real-time detection of anomalies. The software alerts operators to potential security incidents, increasing operational efficiency. In addition to this, SBPM has introduced wide-area surveillance systems, or “spotters”, which possess day and night thermal cameras that can monitor up to 8 kilometers away. SBPM has also added a drone program for patrolling and monitoring hotspots, thereby augmenting its ability to react to surface crime and theft. Furthermore, SBPM has installed non-ferrous metal detectors at shaft exit points to prevent stolen copper from being concealed. A “watching brief” has also been put on all instances of copper theft by the company, leading to several successful prosecutions. Communication with community policing forums in the surrounding villages, such as Sefikile and Mantserre, has also been very effective in reducing crime and improving security. SBPM has made a deliberate attempt to induct all the contractors and employees on the security measures in place and the punishment for non-compliance.
Going forward, SBPM is looking at using satellite imaging technology to further enhance perimeter security and monitor unauthorized access to company grounds. The move is in consonance with the overall trend in the industry, where security is becoming increasingly integrated with technology. The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) published a study by Patience Moyo, titled “Securing the Earth’s Treasures: Regulating the Rendering of Security Services in the South African Mining Sector”, which further stated that mining security may also be boosted by further training of security personnel, more efficient regulatory oversight, and the use of advanced technology. The research also highlights the necessity for collaboration between mining companies, security service providers, government agencies, and local communities in confronting security challenges in the mining sector.
The role of technology in mining security cannot be overstated. AI, drones, and advanced surveillance devices have all proved useful in detecting threats and in improving response times. Yet emerging threats in the form of political instability, corruption, and absence of law enforcement are still significant challenges. Expert, Nash Lutchman, 4D Security Risk Advisory Managing Director, pointed out that the mining sector has significant security problems because of the lack of skills in security management. He emphasised the importance of integrating new technologies and analytics into security operations, adding that many mining companies have yet to adopt these systems. Predictive analytics, in particular, is not yet being used, even when it is able to identify security threats even before they can happen.
Apart from physical threats to security, cyber-security is also an increasing concern for the mining sector. As mining operations become more reliant on digital technologies, the risk of cyber-attacks, including hacking and data breaches, has grown with the expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) in the industry. While network monitoring and security operations centers are crucial, Lutchman noted that mining companies have yet to make significant investments in safeguarding their digital infrastructure against cyber threats.
Unions and workers’ organisations are also vital in ensuring increased security in the mining sector. These organisations are, however, faced with numerous challenges, particularly where some of the security protocols have an adverse impact on the workers. Striking a balance between ease of operations and workers’ safety remains a challenge. However, incorporating security into the very core of the operations of mines is essential in protecting production and safety. One of the most critical areas of improvement, according to Lutchman, is the need for public-private partnerships (PPPs) to assist in addressing the security crisis in the mining sector. He suggests that the state must more effectively collaborate with the private sector to develop sustainable solutions to crime in the mining industry. Such partnerships have the potential to augment law enforcement, strengthen criminal justice systems, and reduce bureaucratic impediments to progress.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk emphasised the importance of cooperation between the police and private security companies in the combat against illegal mining. SAPS’s Operation Vala Umgodi, for example, has made significant progress in addressing illegal mining activities, with over 18,000 suspects arrested, many of whom were illegal foreigners. Technology such as drones has also helped
SAPS to cover more ground and reach tough terrains more easily. SAPS, also still collaborates with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) and other government departments in combating illegal mining activities.
Despite these challenges, there is a ray of hope for the future, with the mining sector showing resilience and resourcefulness in the face of security threats. By embracing technology, improving collaboration, and plugging regulatory gaps, South Africa’s mining sector can perhaps evolve towards a more stable and sustainable future. However, companies must continue to be agile in adapting their security responses to address an increasingly fluid threat environment while safeguarding staff, assets, and local communities.
Mametlwe Sebei, President of the General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA), shared his perceptions on the chronic health and safety problems of mine workers. He indicated that the mining companies are primarily driven by profit maximization as their central goal at the expense of workers’ health. Sebei contended that mining firms are perpetually under pressure to reduce costs, which often leads to compromising the health and safety of workers. He noted that most accidents at work are preventable if mine management heeds the advice of workers, who have first-hand knowledge of the underground conditions. Sebei stressed that workers should be involved in decision-making on safety improvements because their immediate experience is crucial in identifying hazards and preventing accidents.
Sebei also noted that the pursuit of profit routinely leads to workers being exploited, especially when it comes to unsafe working conditions and low pay. He made parallels with the Marikana tragedy, in which mine workers protested poor safety conditions and were violently confronted. Sebei said the Marikana event demonstrates how mine workers are regarded by employers as disposable, putting profits ahead of their safety and lives. Sebei noted that peaceful struggles led by the labour movement have been key to achieving health and safety gains in the sector, but much more needs to be done to address these systemic issues.
Gilbert Moela, Media and Communications Officer of the Mining Affected Communities United in Action (MACUA), provided valuable feedback on the impact of mining activities on the communities of the Sekhukhune District Municipality of the Limpopo Province. Some of the key issues Moela highlighted include health risks through air and water pollution from mining operations, social displacement owing to the relocation of communities without adequate compensation, and a rise in crime rates as a result of economic imbalances between the mining companies and the locals. These factors have led to increased security threats in the area. Moela called on mining companies to engage in constructive dialogue with local communities, conduct corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and provide priority employment to locals as a way of building good relations with the residents.
Moela also brought up the matter of security risks related to mining protests and violent clashes that are often instigated by environmental destruction and resource conflicts. Anti-mining activists have faced intimidation and violence, which further exacerbates the situation. He called on mining companies to adopt more responsible practices to quell the negative impacts of their projects on host societies.
Responding to these issues, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), through Spokesperson, Makhosonke Buthelezi, acknowledged the mining industry’s concerns but clarified that the department does not have a policy that specifically addresses security in mining activities. Nevertheless, the DMRE is involved in joint efforts with SAPS and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to combat illegal mining activities across the country. Buthelezi highlighted the department’s role in ensuring compliance with the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act and the Mine Health and Safety Act, which regulate the mining industry and safeguard the health of employees and surrounding communities. He also mentioned the department’s drive to formalise the artisanal and small-scale mining industry, such as enabling legal mining activities.
Dr. Mary Mangai, Senior Lecturer in Public Management and Administration at the University of Pretoria highlighted illegal mining as one of South Africa’s greatest challenges. She pointed to the 2024-2025 Buffelsfontein mine disaster, where 78 bodies were recovered and over 246 illegal miners rescued, as a stark warning of the risks of lax security in the mining sector.
Dr. Mangai outlined how illicit mining had also become more sophisticated, with criminal syndicates attacking abandoned and operating mines, particularly in gold, platinum, and diamond sectors. This has given birth to increasing violence, corruption, and new threats in the form of cyber-security attacks. Illicit miners are typically armed and involved in violent confrontations with rival groups, law enforcement, and private security. Corruption within mining companies, law enforcement, and municipalities propels the issue.
She also likened South Africa’s case to other nations, citing how countries such as Canada and Australia have been able to reduce illegal mining significantly through strict regulations and high-tech surveillance. Conversely, South Africa’s fragmented enforcement and corruption provide a fertile ground for illegal mining.
Though certain policies, such as the National Integrated Strategy to Combat Illegal Mining, have been put in place, weak enforcement, few resources, and smuggling across boundaries continue to frustrate efforts. More effective governance, strong enforcement, and socio-economic development are required to fight this pervasive issue, Dr. Mangai underscored.
