Contrary to widespread belief, the number of Basotho involved in illegal mining activities in South Africa is significantly lower than often claimed, according to Minister of Local Government, Chieftainship, Home Affairs, and Police, Lebona Lephema.
Speaking on ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, Lephema emphatically rejected suggestions that large numbers of Basotho are engaged in these operations, describing such claims as “proven wrong.”
“I recently worked with South African Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, on an operation in which over 2,000 illegal miners were apprehended. Out of that total, only around 200 were Basotho. That shows there are far fewer Basotho involved than is commonly believed,” he said.
To enhance cooperation and address broader cross-border criminal activity, Lephema announced the formation of a Cross-Border Crime Prevention Forum. The forum brings together communities from both Lesotho and South Africa, particularly those residing near the borders, to jointly tackle not only illegal mining but also persistent stock theft.
The Minister also confirmed his continued close collaboration with his South African counterpart, Mchunu, noting that a bilateral meeting between the two is scheduled to take place soon.
In addition to security matters, Lephema addressed ongoing difficulties faced by Basotho in obtaining Lesotho Exemption Permits (LEPs). He acknowledged the challenges, including widespread scams targeting permit applicants.
“We know Basotho struggle with this process and are often victims of fraud,” he said.
Following discussions at a recent Bi-National Commission (BNC), Lephema and his South African counterparts agreed to explore solutions. One such solution includes establishing dedicated application points both in South Africa, at consulates, and in Lesotho, where Basotho officers would assist applicants and liaise directly with the South African Department of Home Affairs.
In a further move toward regional integration and economic cooperation, Lephema revealed that a joint Basotho-South African delegation, supported by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), is currently in The Gambia conducting a study on the free movement of people. The study aims to inform future policies that could enhance trade and mobility between the two countries.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
