6 illegal Zimbabwean men arrested for illegal mining
In the Bontekooi informal settlement in Kleinzee, Operation Vala Umgodi teams took action on Saturday, targeting illegal mining and associated criminal activities.
The intelligence-driven efforts resulted in the arrests of six undocumented Zimbabwean males aged between 23 and 45 and the seizure of tools suspected for use in illegal mining.
Tools seized
Meanwhile, in Steinkopf, responding to information, authorities arrested a 19-year-old female found in possession of dagga valued at R39,000 and suspected proceeds of crime. The suspect faces charges for possession of dagga and appeared in the Springbok Magistrate court on Monday, April 8th, 2024.
Dagga confiscated
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Luntu Ngubelanga commended the team for their arrests and dedication to eradicating illicit mining activities in the Namakwa District.
In a seperate incident the Operation resulted in the arrest of 18 suspected illegal miners in Bekkersdal and Westonaria, West Rand District on Monday 08 April 2024.
The team also seized tools used by the illegal miners.
A multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi, consisting of various law enforcement agencies that include South African Police Service and South African National Defence Force, is continuing to yield positive results in Gauteng.