The wife of a man who was killed during a shootout between police and suspected illegal miners at the Zamimpilo Informal Settlement near Riverlea, Johannesburg, last night, has called on government to bring an end to Zama Zamas.

His body was found early this morning. The informal settlement is riddled with crime and gang-related violence among illegal miners. Despite multiple raids by law enforcement officials, illegal miners continue to operate in that area.

Martha Lotters is the victim’s wife, “Innocent people are dying in these shootings of the Zama Zamas. Look at what happened to my husband now. He came from his work and he got shot and killed. People are dying unnecessarily. Government must take steps and deport these people. Government must root these people out and send them back,” says Lotters.

The deceased’s daughter, Ronnel Lottering says he will be dearly missed.

“We are very emotional and traumatised. He will be missed by three grandkids, my mom and my brother. He always had a smile on his face. He was known by many people. He did domestic work. He will be dearly missed for everything about him. He had a smile and he made people smile,” she adds.