I was saddened by the article about the raid on illegal miners in Matholesville, especially the remark of Colonel Laing, to quote: “An operation in which we confiscated this quantity of materials from the illegal shacks and then destroyed the shacks.” He then stated he enjoyed himself.
I appreciate that the mining is illegal but wonder if the men will now turn to other activities like drug dealing or hijacking to feed their families. Perhaps these activities would be less work and have less police interference.
I am involved in the support of a creche in the area and the owner tells me that without the “miners” the community would starve. Other areas where I am involved have [seen] a huge increase in violence and theft caused by drugs. The police seem to turn a blind eye to the drug dealers.
I feel pleased that Colonel Laing has retired.
