MPUMALANGA –Three illegal miners aged between 17 and 38 were arrested during a multi-disciplinary intelligence driven operation conducted by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Mpumalanga together with the Mpumalanga Provincial Detectives, National Intervention Unit (NIU), Department of Home Affairs (DHA), Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), Department of Environmental Affairs, Tactical Response Team (TRT), Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), K9 Unit as well as SSG Security Barberton on Monday, 26 September 2022 in Barberton Borehill-Mjindini, Sheba, Verulum and Matsulu B respectively.

The arrests follow an operation aimed at dismantling illegal mining activities which cause air and water pollution, endangers the safety of the community and causing damage to infrastructure.

During the operation numerous pendukas, generators, gold bearing materials, gold metal detectors, gas cylinders, compressors, iron balls, and containers were confiscated. The estimated value of the seized property is R200 000. Bones suspected to be of endangered species were also confiscated for further investigation.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Barberton and Matsulu Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday, 27 September 2022 respectively.

Source: South African Police Service