POLOKWANE – A large-scale operation against illegal mining in Sekhukhune District led to the arrest of over 50 individuals.
According to South African Police Service, this operation was conducted on Friday, 01 December 2023, and was spearheaded by the District Commissioner of Sekhukhune, Major General Junior Lehabe-Metsi. The operation involved members from various SAPS stations and units, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), private security firms, and representatives from multiple government departments.
The operation targeted illegal mining activities across several areas in Sekhukhune District, including Apel, Mecklenburg, Driekop, and Burgersfort. A total of 57 suspects were apprehended for illegal mining in these areas. Additional arrests were made during roadblocks and stop-and-search operations in identified hotspots.
The operation yielded several successes:
57 arrests for illegal mining
18 undocumented persons detained
Seizure of suspected stolen property
Confiscation of expired food
Closure of three shebeens for violating the Liquor Act
16 violations of the Road Traffic Act
One arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol
One trademark violation
One violation of the Fire Arm Control Act
One case involving second-hand goods
Authorities also seized a truck, two firearms, an excavator, 33 generators, 61 wheelbarrows, three jack hammers, 25 shovels, two electric cords (including two electric drills), eight spades, forty-two chisels, a punch, two grinders, a torch, two headlamps, a cell phone, and 340.500 liters of alcohol.
Limpopo’s Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended all stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in this successful operation. “This is a sign that as a team we will always win against criminals, let’s keep on supporting each other and protect the minerals of this province and ensure safety to our citizens,” remarked Lieutenant General Hadebe.
The suspects are scheduled to appear in various magistrate courts, and police investigations are ongoing.