The growing mistrust within South Africa’s mine security and law enforcement sectors will not stop the urgent need for stronger collaboration, according to organisers of the upcoming 5th annual Mine Security Conference.

Recent arrests involving high-ranking police officials and members of special investigation units have highlighted deep divisions and the possible existence of competing factions within enforcement structures. These developments have left many questioning who can ultimately be trusted in the fight against illegal mining and organised crime.

However, industry stakeholders believe that collaboration remains essential.

Taking place from 1–2 July at the Indaba Hotel in Johannesburg, the Mine Security Conference will bring together key players from mining, government enforcement, legal, academic, and private security sectors to address the evolving risks facing mining operations and critical infrastructure.

Hosted by Ankia Roux, co-owner of Pinpoint Stewards, the conference is designed to encourage both formal engagement and private networking opportunities aimed at restoring trust among stakeholders.

“Although this is a public platform, the conference creates a much-needed independent network for major stakeholders to engage privately during breaks and assigned networking functions, with the aim of building trust and connections,” said Roux.

The conference speaker lineup includes representatives from Rio Tinto | Richards Bay Minerals, Neo Energy Metals, Eskom, Harmony Gold Mining Company Ltd, Foskor, and Anglo American-Kumba Iron Ore (Sishen Mine), alongside legal experts from Beech Veltman Inc.

Government and enforcement participants include the Border Management Authority (BMA), National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), Centre for Geopolitical Security and Strategy (CGSS), North-West University (NWU), and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI).

Exhibitors such as Quatro, UDS (UAV & Drone Solutions), Safer City Group, and Blue Hawk Tactical will showcase specialised security technologies and services ranging from advanced aerial surveillance and integrated safety ecosystems to armoured vehicles, tactical armed response, and technology-driven risk management solutions.

The conference programme will address a wide range of industry challenges, including:

• Financial intelligence and forensic evidence in combating illicit mining and organised crime.
• Insider threats within mining operations.
• Real-time intelligence-sharing between mines.
• Risk management and compliance strategies.
• Intelligence gathering to identify operational vulnerabilities.
• Customs and border control challenges linked to illegal mineral trade.
• Public-private partnerships to improve mining and infrastructure security.
• Legal rights of mines in responding to illegal mining and security breaches.
• Accountability surrounding ownerless mines and abandoned shafts.

Despite current challenges, Roux remains optimistic about future progress, pointing to increased government investment in policing and organised crime investigations.

“It’s not all doom and gloom,” Roux said. “The South African Police Service has received a R127 billion allocation for the 2026/27 financial year, including R1 billion specifically aimed at organised crime investigations, detective services, crime intelligence, and digital and financial forensics.”

Online registration is available via: www.pinpointstewards.co.za

For exhibition opportunities and enquiries, contact: info@pinpointstewards.co.za