Illicit miners could face R100m fines, 30 years in jail under proposed law

By Thapelo Molefe

Illicit miners and those who assist them could face fines of up to R100 million and prison sentences of up to 30 years under tough new legislation approved by Cabinet.

Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi announced the proposed penalties on Tuesday as she briefed the media on four Bills forming part of the government’s 2026 legislative programme.

The General (Mining) Laws Amendment Bill seeks to criminalise illicit mining and related activities while strengthening enforcement against illegal mining operations.

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The Bill proposes increasing