Four suspects nabbed following the discovery of an illegal gold processing laboratory in Mopani District

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo

POLOKWANE – Four suspects were arrested following the discovery of an illegal gold processing laboratory on Saturday, 08 February 2025, along the R71 near Tarentaalrand in the Letsitele policing area under Mopani District, have briefly appeared before the Ritavi Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 10 February 2025, facing charges of illegal processing of gold-bearing materials. They were remanded in custody until 18 February 2025 for formal bail.

The suspects were identified as: Jonh Vondo (Zimbabwean, 39), Hardlife Manjoko (Zimbabwean, 35), Biggie Chimwero (Zimbabwean, 36) and Samuel Almeida Mashaba (Mozambican, 46), who was additionally charged with contravening the Immigration Act.

The arrests followed a well-coordinated, intelligence driven operation carried out by the Mopani District Vala Umgodi Task Team, with support from the Tactical Joint Operational Center (TACJOC) Detectives and Airwing Drone Pilots.

Two of these individuals are suspected to be the main kingpins behind the illegal mining activities.

During the operation, police seized various items believed to have been used in the illegal processing of minerals, including: Containers with carbon ashes (presumed to be precious minerals), Gas bottles, Sulfuric acids and Oxygen cylinders.

Furthermore, two vehicles, a red Haval and a white Mercedes-Benz, both with Gauteng registration plates, believed to belong to the two suspected kingpins, were seized.

Ends

Enquiries:
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
082 451 7180

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