VEREENIGING. – A multi-disciplinary team clamped down on suspected illegal mining activity in Unitas Park on Friday, 20th October.

According to police spokesperson Captain Fikile Funda, the team which included the SAPS, Department of Home Affairs, Rapid Rail Police, Emfuleni Local Municipality Traffic Police, and By-Law Unit conducted a high-density operation in the area of Sector 3.

Funda says, “While conducting stop and search operations, police came across a plot in Paul Rops Street, where illegal mining activities were being carried out.”

Funda states that on further investigation, the team discovered eight mobile swimming pools full of soil suspected to have platinum bearing material, adding that chemicals suspected to be Sulfuric and Sodium Cyanide were found.”

Funda states that three Zimbabwean nationals found at the scene were undocumented and subsequently arrested.

“The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and all stakeholders were consulted. The three suspects will make an appearance in court soon,” Funda stated.

The Sedibeng District Commissioner, General Nkhensani Lemba congratulated all members and stakeholders on a job well done.