Police destroy illegal mining equipment in Burgersfort
The equipment was destroyed to prevent any possibility of it being reused in illegal mining operations.
The illegal mining equipment frequently seized by the SAPS’s Vala Umgodi task team in Burgersfort was officially destroyed on July 8.
In a decisive move to combat illegal mining, the SAPS in Burgersfort has taken a significant step in decommissioning tools used by illegal miners.
The equipment, confiscated and abandoned during ongoing Vala Umgodi operations in the Burgersfort policing area, was destroyed under strict supervision by the Tactical Joint Operations Centre (TAC-JOC) team, SAPS 13 Exhibit Management, the Local Criminal Record Centre, and Provincial Proactive Policing and Frontline Management Services.
“The equipment was officially destroyed at an identified local scrap metal yard in Steelpoort, ensuring transparency and accountability. A total of 50 generators, 40 jackhammers, 15 picks, 35 shovels and spades, and 30 wheelbarrows were crushed to prevent any possibility of re-entry into illegal mining activities,” said Limpopo SAPS spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.
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He said the action reflects SAPS’s commitment to eradicating illegal mining and protecting communities, the environment, and legitimate businesses from the damaging effects of unlawful operations.
“The SAPS remains dedicated to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a safer and lawful environment for all residents,” he added.
