As the Guptas and their minions squeezed Glencore out of Optimum Coal Mine, the chaps at the Swiss-based metal mining and trading group must have recognised the playbook.

At about the same time as the Guptas were encircling Optimum, Glencore was indirectly putting the final touches to its capture of the state in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to secure control of its rich copper deposits. That is why it is a pity that in its report on the Optimum shenanigans, the Zondo state capture commission ignored the context — how Glencore and other metals groups do business. ..

Subscribe now to unlock this article.

Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).

There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.

Cancel anytime.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.