FREE STATE
Two (2) suspects were arrested by Operation Vala uMgodi operators in Allenridge during illicit mining disruptive policing actions. The two males aged 32 and 39 were found in possession of processed gold nuggets weighing at 1.86 kilograms in Matlharangtlheng Informal Settlement, Allenridge.
One Mapp gas bottle, spoon, a regulator with nozzle and a crusable cup containing the amalgam was also seized by the police. A case docket of Possession/ Acquisition/ Disposal of unrought precious metals Act 37/2005 Section 4(1) was opened at Allenridge Police Station.
More operational concepts were executed in illicit mining hotspot areas such as Kudu Old Mine in Odendaalsrus,
Old V1 Shaft in Virginia, Western Holdings 05 Old Shaft in Welkom and Thabong 2010 Informal Settlement where altogether nine (9) foreign nationals with ages ranging between 19 and 51 were found busy with illegal mining activities.
The police seized gold bearing material weighing at 147.36 kilograms and gold processing equipment such as 9kg gas bottles (3), industrial oxygen cylinders (2), connector pipes, regulators fitted with nozzles, steel plates (5), pick axes (5), shovels (4), self-made washers (5) and strainers were also seized. Case dockets of Possession of suspected gold bearing material; gold processing equipment, Trespassing on mine area and Contravention of Immigration Act were opened at different stations.
Good partnership between South African Police Service and Private Security Companies led to the arrest of five (5) mine employees for Conspiracy to commit crime: assisting illegal miners, Contravention of Mine Health and Safety Act and Money Laundering. Contraband foodstuffs such as beef soup powder, chicken soup powder, instant porridge, energy powder drinks, peanuts and raisins to the value of R18 000.00 were intercepted and confiscated.
Lt. Col Thabo Covane
Corporate Communication and Liaison: Free State said
All arrested persons will appear before Court soon.