Illegal mining violence shuts Simmer and Jack, Rooikraal landfills what Ekurhuleni residents need to know

What happened

Temporary closures were announced on Monday morning by the City of Ekurhuleni after a shooting at the Simmer and Jack landfill site in Germiston on Sunday afternoon and ongoing tensions at landfill facilities. The city also confirmed the Rooikraal landfill site in Dawn Park is temporarily closed for maintenance.

Why the closures were ordered

The city linked the shutdowns to recurring violence related to illegal mining and clashes between rival groups operating at landfill sites. According to the City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, the Simmer and Jack site was closed following a shooting involving suspected illegal miners.

Security response

The EMPD has been deployed to the Simmer and Jack site and is monitoring the situation in an effort to restore order and ensure public safety. The city said it will communicate further updates as information becomes available and apologised to residents for the inconvenience caused.

Scope and impact

City statements and reporting describe a pattern of repeated disruptions at landfill facilities across Ekurhuleni over recent months, with armed groups linked to illegal mining syndicates said to have infiltrated sites. These groups reportedly use intimidation and violence to control access to recyclable materials and strategic areas of the facilities, threatening municipal operations, worker safety and surrounding communities.

What residents should know

Residents using Ekurhuleni landfill services should note the temporary closures at Simmer and Jack and Rooikraal and await official city updates on reopenings and service changes. The city has said it will provide further information when available.

Stay informed

• Watch for official City of Ekurhuleni communications for announcements about landfill reopening and service alterations.
• Expect continued monitoring and security activity at affected sites while authorities work to restore order.

Broader concern

The recent shooting and ongoing clashes have renewed concerns about the growing influence of illegal mining networks in Ekurhuleni and the risks they pose to municipal infrastructure and the safety of workers and nearby communities. The city has apologised for the inconvenience caused to residents and pledged to update the public as the situation develops.