MIDVAAL. – The police together with various law enforcement continue to make strides in the clamping down on illegal mining activities.

On Friday, February 16, police arrested 6 suspects who were caught red-handed carrying out illegal mining activities on a plot in Kliprivier.

The success is part of the SAPS operation Vala Umgodi which aims to combat illicit mining activities in various districts. According to the SAPS, those who are involved in illegal mining activities are feeling the presence of the operation as more suspects are being arrested, and illegal mines are dismantled and closed down in Gauteng.

Speaking about the success, Sedibeng District Commissioner General Nkhensani Lemba said a tactical operation was launched in conjunction with the Sedibeng CIS, Drone Policing, Sedibeng Infrastructure Unit, Sedibeng task Team, Sedibeng K9, Kliprivier SAPS, Afriguard Security and Rangers.

“After keeping observations for a number of days and verification of illegal activities taking place, a search warrant was obtained. On arrival, the operational team requested permission to search the premises and discovered 7 phendukas, 6 electricity motors, and gold-bearing material worth over R2 million.”

Lemba applauded their team on their success, adding that the work carried out by the team is commendable.

Lemba urged the community to share information about illegal activities.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the arrest of six suspects.

“Bags of gold-bearing material were seized. The suspects are expected to appear before court soon on a charge of illegal mining.”

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the arrest of six suspects.

“Bags of gold bearing material and phendukas were seized. The suspects are expected to appear before court soon on a charge of illegal mining.”