| 2024/12/15 |
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Media Statement POLOKWANE – The swift response of the multidisciplinary Vala Umgodi Task Team in Sekhukhune District has led to the arrest of a 39-year-old suspected illegal miner and the confiscation of chrome worth an estimated value of R75, 000 in the Apel policing area on Saturday, 14 December 2024. The intelligence-driven joint operation, activated in the early hours, was conducted in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) at Atok, after receiving information regarding illegal mining activities at a mining site. Upon arrival, the team found a male individual who had already loaded bags of chrome into his bakkie. The suspect then attempted to flee the scene in his vehicle. The members pursued the suspect and eventually intercepted him in Shushumela village, where four bags containing chrome, which had been loaded onto the bakkie, were recovered. Further investigation revealed several additional bags of chrome inside the suspect’s yard, which he had already transported from the mine. The suspect was arrested for illegal mining, possession of chrome and is expected to appear before the Sekhukhune Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 17 December 2024. In addition, during the operation to inspect illegal mining sites, officers encountered trucks illegally loading sand without the required permits or documentation in the Malipisdrift policing area. Three suspects, aged between 37 and 47, were charged with contravening Section 24F(1)(a) of NEMA 107 of 1998 and each paid a fine of R1500. The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, praised the role players for their joint efforts and teamwork that led to the arrest and further commended the community members for providing valuable information. Ends
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