Jamba: A 47-year-old engineer of South African nationality was arrested by the National Police (PN) in the municipality of Jamba, Hula province, on suspicion of exploring and trafficking gold from illegal mines. This arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing battle against illegal gold mining in the region, which primarily involves young people from Huambo, Luanda, and Benguela, as well as individuals from the Democratic Republic of Congo. This case, however, is the first to involve a suspect of South African nationality.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the suspect is currently in pre-trial detention, a measure ordered by a judge of guarantees after he was brought before the Public Prosecutor's Office. Superintendent Pedro Cassoma Mendes, head of Hula's Criminal Investigation Department (DIIP), revealed that the South African citizen was apprehended in Mupopo with 20.6 grams of raw gold believed to be sourced from clandestine mines in the area.
The engineer, employed by a mining company, allegedly exploited his professional position to engage in illegal prospecting activities, operating outside of his official duties. The arrest occurred on January 24, following a targeted police operation prompted by a complaint regarding his illicit activities. Due to the gravity of the offense, police executed a series of strategic measures, culminating in his capture with the illegal mineral.
The foreigner, who has resided in the Jamba commune, approximately 315 kilometers east of Lubango, for over four years, stands accused of resorting to illegal mining practices for the first time, as per police records. The authorities continue to investigate the extent of his involvement in the illegal gold trade, underscoring the challenges faced in curbing such activities in the region.