AmaBhungane journalist Micah Reddy discusses his investigation into a Limpopo mine deal which has left the local community reeling from infighting and violent protests.
The traditional leadership is accused of hijacking the community trust and striking a deal with a mining company — owned by, among others Adriano Mazzotti, a controversial businessman and associate of Julius Malema. Part of Reddy’s investigation reveals allegations that Mazzotti leveraged his friendship with Malema to defuse opposition to the mine.The EFF denied meddling, saying: “Mr Malema has never done any of these things. We really have no idea what amaBhungane is talking about.”
While Dithabeng’s attorneys told amaBhungane: “Mr Mazzotti nor any of the directors of Dithabeng did not contact Mr Malema nor would they have done so. Mr Mazzotti’s friendship with Mr Malema is not abused for personal gain.”
* Read Malema buddy’s mine leaves community reeling