and possession of suspected unpolished diamonds.

Northern Cape Hawks Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nomthadaso Mnisi said their arrests were the result of a multi-disciplinary, intelligence-driven operation conducted by members deployed under Operation Vala Umgodi in the Namakwa District. From Tuesday, 17 June 2025 to Friday, 20 June 2025, teams received information regarding suspicious nocturnal mining operations at a diamond site in Koingnaas.

Acting swiftly on the intelligence, the proactive and combat teams tactically approached the identified location and successfully apprehended ten suspects actively engaged in illegal mining. The individuals were also found in possession of suspected unpolished diamonds.

In a separate intervention within the Francis Baard District, teams under the leadership of the Provincial TAC-JOC Commander, Colonel Sebenzile Qunta, conducted disruptive operations at the Beefmaster illegal mining camp. A significant quantity of dagga was recovered during the action.

Additionally, three suspects were arrested at a wholesale premises on Phakamile Mabija Street in Kimberley after they were found to be in the country without valid documentation.

On Friday, 20 June 2025, two more suspects were arrested in Longlands following intelligence reports of illegal mining activities in the area.

Police confiscated suspected diamond-bearing gravel, unpolished diamonds, and various equipment believed to have been used in the commission of illegal mining operations.

All arrested individuals are expected to appear in the respective Magistrates’ Courts on Monday, 23 June 2025.

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