Breaking news: Several illegal miners arrested in major police bust
NIGEL - In a highly successful and well planned operation, police clamped down and arrested over 20 illegal miners today. HERAUT caught the action on film.
It was the first major illegal mining bust for the local police station.
The operation was led by Capt Zacharia Nkhabelane and his team from SAPS Nigel and executed around 11:00 today (October 26) in conjunction with Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department, Nigel Community on Patrol and Nigel CPF.
Police also confiscated mining equipment and gold bearing material.
Most of the illegal miners are foreign nationals. They were arrested and charged at SAPS Nigel. Some are facing charges like trespassing, attempted theft of gold bearing material and illegal immigration.
The dangers of illegal mining can include cave-ins, as well as noxious fumes or explosions from the chemicals used in extracting gold ore.
The suspects are expected to appear in Nigel Magistrate’s Court soon.
