Johannesburg, South Africa – 21 May 2026- Liberty Coal has recently received numerous media queries regarding civil and criminal proceedings instituted against Kego Mining (Pty) Ltd and its directors, Mr Owen William Nelson and Mr Kevin Patrick Nelson. Liberty Coal confirms that criminal charges have been laid against the said persons pertaining to the unlawful mining and extraction of coal from areas subject to mining rights historically held by Optimum Coal Mine.
The charges relate to alleged contraventions of, amongst others, the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act and the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, as well as allegations of theft arising from the extraction and sale of coal without lawful authority.
Liberty Coal understands that the matter is currently the subject of an active investigation by the SAPS Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (The Hawks). As the investigation is ongoing, Liberty Coal will not comment further on the evidence or merits of the matter at this stage.
Separate civil proceedings have also been instituted in the High Court against Kego Mining relating to the alleged unlawful mining activities and damages arising therefrom. Those proceedings remain ongoing.
Liberty Coal maintains that compliance with South Africa’s mining and regulatory framework, including the protection of lawful mining rights and preserved assets, is of fundamental importance to the integrity of the mining sector.
Liberty Coal will continue to cooperate fully with the relevant authorities and legal processes.
About Liberty Coal
Liberty Coal is a South African coal producer focused on responsible surface mining practices, operational reliability, and efficient resource extraction. The company is committed to maintaining high engineering standards and supporting the sustainable development of the regional mining industry.
