Oliphant was speaking during Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe's visit to Douglas in the Northern Cape to assess the progress made in the War on Poverty campaign.
"If there are illegal mining activities in your area, call the police," he said after community members raised concerns about this issue.
They also voiced the challenge of mining companies in the area not employing enough locals, and felt that they were not doing enough to develop their communities, with the companies often leaving the areas unrestored after their closure.
"Mining companies must commit to the development of communities and they must consult with the local municipalities... We encourage mines to also rehabilitate the areas," Oliphant said in response.
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