LIMPOPO – A disruptive operation between the Hawks’ serious organised crime investigation unit and crime intelligence led to the arrest of 12 suspects for operating illegal gold processing laboratories in Mapuve village, outside Giyani.

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According to provincial spokesperson, Captain Matimba Maluleke, almost 10 illegal gold processing laboratories, including gold mining equipment; gas cylinders, generators, gold bearing materials, mercury, automatic and manual operating pendukas, industrial hammers, gold bearing material grinders and industrial torches/flash lights were seized.

The estimated value of all seized items is well over R1.5 million.

“All the suspects, who are mostly illegal immigrants and whose personal particulars are still subject to an investigation, are expected to appear in the Giyani Magistrates Court today, 9 May, and will charged  with contravening the Precious Metal Act. More charges are expected,” Maluleke said.

Limpopo Hawks Provincial Head, Major General Thobeka Jozi, commended the team for its tireless efforts and warned all those who are involved in illegal mining that they should expect such similar operations in the province.

“We are tasked to deal with priority crimes and the zamazamas and illegal gold dealers are a serious risk to the economy of the province and the country as a whole.  Together with our partners we will endure and do our best to arrest those who are behind this clandestine operations using and harbouring illegal immigrants to do their dirty work.  Their time will come soon, ” she said.

raeesak@nmgroup.co.za