24 Suspected Illegal Miners Arrested in Limpopo With Illegal Explosives and Over R16k in Cash

• Police have arrested 24 suspected illegal miners at Apel in the Sekhukhune District in Limpopo
• The suspected miners were aged between 19 and 50 years old and are expected to appear before court soon
• At least 22 were also found to be in the country illegally and will face additional charges

LIMPOPO - Police have arrested 24 suspected illegal miners, who were found in possession of illegal explosives, mining equipment and over R16 000, at Apel in the Sekhukhune District.

The suspected miners were aged between 19 and 50 years old. Police Spokesperson Malesela Ledwaba said the suspects are expected to appear before court soon, SABC News reported. The operation was a joint effort between the police, the Departments of Home Affairs, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, immigration officials, EMS, and mining companies.

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At least 22 of the arrested suspects were also found to be in the country illegally and will face additional charges of contravening the Immigration Act, according to IOL. Equipment such as jack hammers, buckets, a generator, shovels, electrical cords and chrome were confiscated.

The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe also welcomed the operation and commended the members involved.

97 illegal miners arrested along with 62-year-old farmer, 570 rounds of ammunition seized

In a related matter, Briefly News also reported police have arrested 97 illegal miners and a 62-year-old farmer who was found with illegal ammunition and gold-bearing equipment at a Heidelberg farm.

In addition, 570 rounds of ammunition were also seized during the sting operation. Police Spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe said a specialised unit team received information regarding illegal mining activities.

Source: Briefly News