Kwatsaduza – Twelve people have been arrested for various offences and illegal activities during a crackdown on illegal mining.
Mining equipment was confiscated during the first phase of the operation.
This was part of the efforts by Ekurhuleni East police to eradicate illegal mining.
Duduza police spokesperson Sgt Harry Manaka said this was a joint venture by the members from Duduza and Dunnottar SAPS, the Rapid Railway Unit, EMPD, Transnet Freight Rail Security, Home Affairs (immigration officials) and Afri-Guard Security.
Police conduct illegal mining operation in Daggafontein
He explained that the operation sought to address the growing illegal mining activities that are endangering not only the environment by damaging geographical landscape and erosion but was also threatening public health for the communities of Dunnottar and Duduza due to the contamination of the water streams.
“Police busted and closed down two illegal processing plants in Zamani, Duduza, and further confiscated processing apparatus related to illegal mining, such as phendukas, generators and steel balls,” explained Manaka.
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