The Gauteng Hawks Serious Organised Crimes Unit are investigating possible links between a former member of the SAPS Gold and Diamond Unit and illegal mining syndicates operating in Benoni.

The former police officer was arrested at his house in Rynfield on May 2, after an ongoing investigation revealed enough alleged evidence to justify a search warrant at his upmarket estate residence.

Hawks spokesperson Colonel Philani Nkwalase alleges the accused was found in possession of gold, platinum and a large undisclosed amount of money.

“An analysis machine and a money-counting machine were also seized during the operation.”

At the time of his arrest, the accused claimed he was employed as a smelt operator for a smelt house in Springs.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the home was not registered for commercial use and that he does not have a permit to buy or deal in precious metals or diamonds from his home,” says Nkwalase.

“Possible links between the accused and illegal mining operations taking place in the city cannot be ruled out. Investigations into these allegations are underway and more arrests are expected.”

The man was granted R20 000 bail by the Benoni Regional Court on May 26.