The urgent court hearing for the PP Gemstone versus Assmang case over illegal Sugilite mining took place on December 31, 2024, in the Johannesburg High Court. Werksmans Attorneys represented Assmang, attempting to defend against allegations of illegal mining activities. 

Recent incidents, including the seizure of more stolen Sugilite at the airport last Friday, indicate that the illegal mining continues unabated. There are concerns about judicial hesitance, possibly due to the influence of billionaire Patrice Motsepe, the owner of Assmang. The court had promised a judgment by January 3rd or 4th, 2025, but as of today, January 13th, no verdict has been delivered.

PP Gemstone, facing ongoing theft of their minerals, filed an urgent application to halt the illegal activities and recover their assets. They presented their mining permits as evidence, while Assmang reportedly failed to provide any legitimate proof to counter the allegations of illegal mining. 

The expectation is for the court to instruct the release of the detained minerals to PP Gemstone and grant them access to their mining site. 

There is a call for Motsepe to demonstrate leadership by resolving this dispute peacefully, suggesting he should leverage his position to end the conflict rather than engaging in legal battles with smaller entities over rightful ownership. 

This situation highlights issues of power dynamics and the potential misuse of influence within South Africa's mining sector.