Two men remain behind bars following a daring late-night armed robbery at a Kriel mine, where a gang of suspects allegedly overpowered workers and made off with coal worth hundreds of thousands of rand.

Francis Nyamande (36) and Tinahle Modzi (45) appeared before the Kriel Magistrate’s Court on February 9, where their case was postponed to February 23 for a formal bail application.

According to a statement released by the office of the Provincial Commissioner, on February 5, around 23:00, workers at the mine were busy with their normal duties when they were attacked by a group of seven armed men.

The gang allegedly tied the workers with cable ties and forced them into a guardroom, where they instructed them to lie down.

Shortly after that, a total of 14 trucks reportedly entered the mine premises and were used to load coal illegally.

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Though 10 of the trucks managed to flee the scene with coal estimated to be worth hundreds of thousands, the swift response of the mine’s security company still saved the night.

Four trucks were intercepted, with two drivers arrested. Information gathered through investigations also led the police to two additional truck owners, who were later detained for questioning.

“The two additional suspects were released, ” said Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, the provincial SAPS spokesperson, adding that the investigation into the case is still underway.

Safety is not guaranteed even behind closed doors in Vosman policing area
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— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) February 8, 2026 

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