Police continue to clamp down on illegal miners
Police arrested 12 undocumented persons suspected of illegal mining during Operation Vala Umgodi.
The crackdown on illegal miners and activities continued recently after various law enforcement agencies embarked on another police visibility operation which led to the arrest of illegal immigrants.
Named Operation Vala Umgodi, this special crime prevention initiative was launched by the police, with support from Crime Prevention Wardens and the Department of Community Safety. The operation focused on the Kagiso, West Village and Luipaardsvlei areas.
According to Gauteng provincial spokesperson Dimakatso Sello, during the operation, 12 undocumented persons were arrested and also suspected of illegal mining. The team went on to seize 39 phendunkas and 58 steel balls and explosives which are used for illegal mining.
Sello confirmed that all arrested suspects are expected to appear in court soon for contravention of the Immigration Act and illegal mining.
