LIMPOPO – The Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Phalaborwa in collaboration with Provincial Illegal Mining Task Team are continuing to eradicate illegal mining activities by conducting multidisciplinary sting disruptive operations in the Province.

This follows the arrest of a 39 year old man who is a foreign national for alleged illegal mining on 21 February 2023 at Makhushwane village in Namakgale.

During the operation, six phendukas, mortar, 16 bags containing gold concentrates, three shovels, electric cable and headlight were seized.

The suspect is expected to appear in the Namakgale Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 22 February 2023 for contravention of the Precious Metal Act.

The Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Limpopo Province, Major General Gopz Govender has applauded and congratulated the proactive approach of the team in dealing with the scourge of illicit mining. "We embrace the community's partnership and support in fighting this scourge of crime," Major General Govender said.

Source: South African Police Service