A police crackdown at the Kopanang mine hostels led to the arrest of 55 undocumented individuals and one suspect found in possession of drugs.

The mine is located on the border of the Free State and North West.

Bloemfontein Courant reports Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane says the operation, led by the multidisciplinary Operation Vala uMgodi team, targeted illegal mining and related crimes.

“A total of 27 females and 28 males were arrested for trespassing on mine property and contravening the Immigration Act [13 of 2002]. Two children, aged eight and 13, were taken to a place of safety by Social Welfare officials,” adds Covane.

Authorities also confiscated contraband, including mercury, drill bits, battery cells, and food supplies left behind by illegal underground miners.

In a separate incident during the operation, a 39-year-old man was caught mining illegally near Hamlet Road, Bedelia. “Gold-bearing material weighing 18.08kg, along with mining tools, were seized,” Covane confirms.

A case of possession of suspected gold-bearing material and contravention of the act was opened at Welkom Police Station.

The suspects are set to appear in court soon.