RIVERLEA - Angry residents of Riverlea have warned the government that they'll take up arms if there isn't visible policing in the area.
They say the Department of Mineral resources must permanently close mine holes and disused mines to address the issue of zama zamas.
Police Minister Bheki Cele returned to the area to assess progress in the fight against illegal mining in the area.
READ: Illegal Mining in SA | 89 kingpins arrested so far: Cele
Cele told the community that apart from dealing with the illegal miners, the kingpins are also in police crosshairs.
He says authorities have already arrested about 89 masterminds.
Cele said mine holes will be covered with cement after police found that several previously sealed shaft entrances have been reopened.
Almost 200 suspects have been arrested in Zamimphilo,including undocumented foreign nationals.