8 arrested in Giyani illegal mining operation

LIMPOPO – Eight suspects were arrested during a multi-disciplinary operation targeting illegal mining activities in Mavalani village outside Giyani on Friday, May 8.

The operation involved members of the Giyani police, Illegal Mining Task Team, Tactical Response Team (TRT) and Mopani Tracing Team.

According to Limpopo police, officers acted on intelligence-linked information and conducted raids at several identified locations in the village.

Firearms and vehicle seized

At the first location, police arrested three men aged between 23 and 54. Two unlicensed firearms and ammunition were confiscated during the operation.

A grey Isuzu double cab bakkie, allegedly used to transport suspected unwrought precious minerals, was also seized.

Police further recovered mining equipment and suspected mining materials, including hammers, chisels, a crowbar, pliers and headlamps.

Foreign nationals arrested

The operation later moved to a second location, where three foreign nationals aged between 23 and 54 were arrested for alleged illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act.

Items seized at the scene included pendukas, wheelbarrows, motors, drums, basins, bags, buckets, cash amounting to R1 950 and two cellphones.

Women arrested for alleged processing of precious metals

At a third location, two women aged 35 and 37 were arrested after police allegedly discovered suspected unwrought precious metals being processed inside a one-roomed house.

A hammer and a bag containing suspected precious metal material were confiscated during the arrest.

Court appearance pending

The suspects are expected to appear in the Giyani Magistrate’s Court on charges including illegal mining, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and contravention of the Immigration Act.

Limpopo provincial commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe commended the law enforcement teams involved in the operation.

Police investigations are continuing.