Gold rush chaos: Springs residents dig up kraal in treasure hunt frenzy

It sounds like a story from the gold rush era - but it’s unfolding right now in Springs. Hundreds of residents from the Gugulethu section’s Payneville informal settlement have descended on a local kraal, armed with spades and hope, after rumours spread that gold particles were discovered in the soil. Some believe the land could be a former mine dump. Others say it sits above an old sewer line. But that hasn’t stopped the frenzy, with desperate residents digging in hopes of striking it rich and transforming their economic fortunes. ,Is there really gold beneath their feet, or just dust and desperation? Phemelo gets insight from mining expert David van Wyk.