multidisciplinary and crime intelligence driven "Vala Umgodi" operation conducted on Thursday, 1 February 2024,

multidisciplinary and crime intelligence driven "Vala Umgodi" operation conducted on Thursday, 1 February 2024, in Scheerpoort near Hartbeespoortdam by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, National Intervention Unit (NIU), Special Task Force (STF), Tactical Response Team (TRT), Public Order Police (POP), South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Air Wing, Mounted Unit, Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), K9 Unit, Visible Policing, ER24 and Harmony Gold Mine security, pounced on 94 undocumented illegal miners.

The suspects were arrested at a mountainous part of the farm where illegal gold mining was reported to be taking place. During the arrest, the team seized large quantities of gold bearing material and 139 generators worth R1.3 million. Additionally, 24 grinders, 95 jackhammers, hammers, chisels, pick-axes, shovels, cutting torches, gas bottles, electric mills, phendukas and explosives were seized.

The suspects who are mainly Zimbabwe and Mozambique foreign nationals, are expected to make a first appearance before the Brits Magistrates' Court on Monday, 05 February 2024.

Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena commended the team for their commitment and cooperation that resulted in the arrests and seizures, which he said will serve as a warning that the police working with other stakeholders will leave no stone unturned in dealing with illicit mining.