A gold rush has gripped an informal settlement east of Johannesburg, South Africa, after reports spread of a discovery of gold particles in a cattle pen.
Dozens of people, armed with pickaxes and shovels, have descended on the area, digging and sifting through soil in hopes of striking it rich.
The find has brought back memories of the gold rush that helped build South Africa’s financial capital over a century ago.
However, the government has condemned the activity, calling it illegal and warning of environmental damage and safety risks.
One miner said, “We know this is illegal. We want the government to give us mining permits so we can work and pay tax.” With gold worth around $100 per gram, the temptation is high, especially for those living in poverty.
