| 2024/12/02 |
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Media Statement FREE STATE – The next Phase of National Intervention: Illicit Mining Stabilization and Normalization Operation Vala uMgodi is underway and the operators in Free State Province hit the ground running. The holistic, multifaceted, multidisciplinary and integrated approach is aimed at addressing the challenges facing South African Mining Industry as a result of illegal mining activities carried out by organised criminal groups. The previous Phases success to deal with all crimes associated illicit mining has raised the bar. The Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure role-players; South African Police Service, South African National Defence Force, Department of Home Affairs including other Governmental Departments as well as the stakeholders; Private Security Companies are faced with a challenge to eradicate threats to safety and security of law abiding citizens in the Province and the Country at large. Crime Intelligence guided operational concepts will continue to be executed at neglected mining properties; deserted open shafts and ventilation, informal settlements and hostels, National and Provincial roads and borderline areas of neighbouring countries [as analysis indicates that Illicit mining is also a cross-border crime] to eradicate illegal trade in precious metals and stones. The Combat and Proactive teams conducted bush patrols in Eland Old Shaft Mine. A 37-year-old illegal immigrant was found in the act of processing gold bearing material using a makeshift slope table. Gold bearing material weighing at 5,26 kilograms was seized and the undocumented male arrested. A case of possession of suspected gold bearing material with an additional charge of contravention of Immigration Act was opened at Welkom Police Station. The suspect will appear in Welkom Magistrate’s Court soon.
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