LIMPOPO – The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation is determined to fight the scourge of illegal mining by conducting continuous disruptive operations in different parts of the province.

After gathering more intelligence about illegal mining activities at Ga Manyaka in Sekhukhune area, a multi-disciplinary disruptive operation comprising the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime, Tactical Response Team, Public Order Police, Lebowakgomo Local Criminal Record Centre, Sekhukhune District Detectives, Vispol members, Dog Unit, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and Emergency Services Investigation was conducted on 12 August 2022.

During the operation, 11 suspected illegal miners aged between 19 and 37 suspects were arrested.

The team also managed to seize 11generators, 7 jackhammers, 2 shovels, 2 picks and 38 wheelbarrows.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Mecklenburg Magistrate's court on 15 August 2022.

In other separate but similar incidents, more than 48 suspected illegal miners were arrested in Sekhukhune and Waterberg districts. More disruptive operations are still going to be conducted in the province, particularly in areas where illegal mining activities are prevalent.

Source: South African Police Service