The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy has vowed to permanently close all open mine shafts and holes in Riverlea, Johannesburg by the end of September in a bid to curb illegal mining in the area. Law enforcement officers came under heavy gunfire in Matholeville west of Johannesburg during an operation targeted at illegal mining hotspots at the weekend. The operation follows the recent discovery of five bodies believed to be those of illegal miners in Riverlea. The Department's Chief Director for Environmental Management, Andries Moatshe says processes to close the mines are already underway. For more on this Elvis Presslin spoke to Theo Doyle, community member of Riverlea and PR Councillor for Patriotic Alliance in City of Joburg