Police hit hard on alleged illegal miners

Eight suspects were expected to appear in the Lebowakgomo Magistrate’s Court earlier this week on charges related to illegal mining after they were arrested during a weekend operation.
Provincial Police Spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe indicated that the high density operation targeted identified areas in and around Lebowakgomo Policing area where illegal mining activities are still prevalent.
During the operation eight persons aged between 36 and 65 years were arrested for illegal mining and possession of suspected stolen chrome. Police also confiscated seven trucks and one motor vehicle.
The operation was conducted by members of the Provincial Organised Crime Unit following a tip-off from members of the community about the existence of these activities in the area, according to Ngoepe.
Police received information on Saturday evening about the suspects who were allegedly mining illegally at Sefalaolo Village in the Ga-Mphahlele area.
Immediate response resulted in six suspects being caught red-handed while loading chrome at one of the mines and six trucks being confiscated.
The operation continued until Monday morning as Police continued to follow up on leads which resulted in the arrest of another two suspects for being in possession of chrome that they had loaded into a truck and a bakkie. Both vehicles were confiscated.

Story: RC Myburgh
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