A police operation targeting illicit mining led to the arrest of six suspects yesterday (October 26) in Pilgrim’s Rest and Ngodwana. The focus is on combating criminal activities through intelligence-driven operations targeting illicit mining activities across the province.

Police alleged that the six suspects were in contravention of immigration laws.

Among those arrested, one of the suspects, who is allegedly a spaza shop owner, was charged with possession of counterfeit cigarettes.

The other five suspects were charged with possession of gold-bearing material (GBM) and gold-bearing equipment, possession of raw gold and money laundering involving R18 600 in cash.

Police seize mining equipment and cash

Sergeant Thulisile Magagula said police confiscated two generators, four shovels, eight phendukas, six jackhammers, one panga, one grinder, three hammers, three spanners, 13 steel balls, three 12.5kg bags of GBM, six plastic basins, two plastic buckets, 22 head torches, one pick, two pairs of water boots, one gas cylinder, one scale, 15 Remington Gold cigarette cartons, raw gold and R18 600 in cash during the operation.

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The suspects are expected to appear in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court soon.

Members of the public are encouraged to report criminal activities to the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111, using the MySAPS app, or approaching their nearest police station. All information provided will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.