Section 52, The Mines and Minerals Act, 2009

(1) The Director, or any person authorised by the Director,may, in writing, order reconnaissance, exploration or mining operations to be temporarily suspended on an emergency basis, regardless of whether such operations are authorized by a mineral right, until such arrangements are made that are in Director’s opinion necessary to prevent danger to life, property or the environment or to comply with this Act. (2) The Director may cancel or vary the terms of any temporary suspension order. (3) The Minister shall have the power to confirm a temporary suspension order made by the Director and may not delegate this power. (4) A temporary suspension order shall lapse after twentyone days of its issuance, unless it is confirmed, in writing, by the Minister.