2 alleged illegal miners arrested in Roodekop
Alberton SAPS and other law enforcement entities apprehended at least two alleged illegal miners during an operation that was conducted in Roodekop recently.
Illegal mining seems to be growing in the greater Alberton community.
This comes after two suspects were apprehended in Roodekop for possession of illegal mining equipment during an operation conducted in the area by Alberton SAPS and other law enforcement entities.
According to Alberton SAPS spokesperson, Captain Manare Ramotshela, they received a tip-off from an anonymous source about a group of foreign nationals that were mining illegally at Roodekop.
“Upon receiving this information we acted immediately. We asked for assistance from other colleagues who also enforce the law in the area. We apprehend two suspects. If they are part of the zama zama, they will be put behind bars,” said Ramotshela.
The CEO of Minerals Council South Africa, Mzila Mthenjane, said illegal mining is becoming more prevalent in South Africa and poses issues that require consideration from a variety of angles.
“It occurs at mines that are closed down and even those that are still in operation. Illegal miners are frequently exposed to hazardous conditions.
“Many thousands of people are currently estimated to be involved in illegal mining, both directly and indirectly. Miners enter mostly abandoned shafts, travelling as far as 4km underground where they may live for several days at a time, risking their lives and the lives of others,” Mzila said.
In the greater Alberton community, over 10 suspected illegal miners have been apprehended and illegal mining equipment has been discovered.
“We aim to leave no stone unturned to fight this illegal act that seems to be increasing day by day in our Alberton,” Ramotshela said.
Alberton SAPS believe that Roodekop is a hotspot for illegal mining.
The station commander of Alberton SAPS, Colonel Olven Letloenyane, commended everyone who assisted in the operation.
