The SAPS continues to intensify operations aimed at disrupting illicit mining activities and related criminality in Mpumalanga.

ALSO READ: SAPS operation targets illegal mining rings in Low’s Creek, Sabie and Pilgrim’s Rest

Police arrested 38 suspects during a midnight operation in Pilgrim’s Rest on September 13.

Officers apprehended 36 of the suspects for illegal mining and possession of gold-bearing material and gold-bearing equipment, while two were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.

Equipment seized in raid

According to police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, all 36 suspects arrested in connection with illicit mining activities are foreign nationals without valid documentation.

ALSO READ: 36 arrested during illegal mining crackdown in Pilgrim’s Rest

During the operation, SAPS also confiscated 10 head torches, one steel ball, six 12.5kg bags containing gold-bearing material, one pick, two hammers, three iron rods, one chisel, three phendukas, one knife, one cellphone, and other equipment believed to have been used by suspects for illegal mining.

Court appearance pending

The suspects are expected to appear in the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court soon to face charges relating to illegal mining, possession of gold-bearing material and equipment, as well as contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.

Detectives continue working with Department of Home Affairs officials to ascertain the status of the arrested suspects.