Heritage Cases

Site NKO 16 comprises a stone structure with two possible graves located inside. Site NKO 17 is an area, close to NKO 16, with the remains of a stone structure which may possibly contain human remains (although considered unlikely). Site 0122 is an area to the north of NKO 16 and NKO 17, with the remains of a stone structure which may possibly contain human remains (although considered unlikely). The sites where the possible graves are located will be affected by mining activities. Any possible graves are in danger of being damaged as they are located close to the the opencast pit which is in the process of expansion . Since the sites are possible graves, PGS Heritage intends to conduct test excavations to assess whether any human remains are located there. If any remains are found, we intend to exhume these and rebury them at the Badplaas Municipal Cemetery. We have been conducting an ongoing social consultation process (as required by Act 25 of 1999) in order to identify any unknown buried individuals and to obtain permission for exhumation and re-interment from affected families, communities and other bona fide interested and affected parties. Site notices in English and Siswati were placed at the mine in January 2015 and Newspaper notices were published in February 2015 in English and Siswati. No family members of the possible graves have been in contact up to now. The social consultation process at the mine has been ongoing since 2006. PGS Heritage has received a permit from the Local Municipality (Albert Luthuli) and is in the process of applying to the Mpumalanga Health department for a permit in case human remains are present.