Author: Aubrey Masinga
Authorities are investigating alleged illegal mining activities linked to Suleiman Carrim, who is believed to be a major figure behind zama zama operations in North West.
Law-enforcement sources say Carrim is suspected of playing a significant role in coordinating illegal mining networks commonly referred to as “zama zamas.” These groups operate in abandoned and active mines across several provinces in South Africa, extracting gold and other minerals without authorization and often selling them through underground criminal markets.
Illegal mining has become a major national security concern, particularly in mining regions where organized criminal groups have established highly structured operations. Authorities say these networks typically involve recruiters, underground miners, armed guards, transporters and buyers who move the minerals through complex supply chains.
Investigators believe Carrim may have been involved in coordinating operations that include supplying equipment, organizing miners and controlling access to certain mining areas in parts of the North West province. These illegal mining operations often take place in dangerous underground shafts where safety regulations are ignored and violence between rival groups is common.
Zama zama groups have been linked to a range of additional crimes, including illegal possession of firearms, human trafficking, extortion, and violent confrontations with security forces and rival mining groups. Communities located near mining areas have frequently raised concerns about the presence of armed illegal miners and the environmental damage caused by unregulated excavation.
Authorities across South Africa have been intensifying operations aimed at dismantling illegal mining syndicates. Law-enforcement agencies, including the police and specialized task teams, have conducted several raids in mining areas across the country in an attempt to disrupt these networks.
Officials say investigations into illegal mining syndicates remain ongoing, and more information may emerge as authorities continue gathering intelligence on individuals believed to be involved in these operations.
Illegal mining remains a complex issue affecting several provinces, including Gauteng, Free State and North West, where abandoned shafts and disused mines often become hotspots for zama zama activity.
Crime Connect News 
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