By OBAKENG MAJE

The disruptive illegal  mining operations continue unabated in Kleinzee and led to the arrests of six suspects. On 14 March 2024, whilst members of Operation Vala Umgodi executed waylay duties and Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), they encountered a blue Mazda bakkie with six occupants.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said, the bakkie was allegedly loaded with eleven bags containing possible diamond bearing gravel and tools. Shemane said all six suspects aged between 22 and 37, were arrested for illegal mining and the bakkie confiscated.

“The operation  led to the arrest of another  twelve undocumented Lesotho Nationals and two South Africans between the ages of 22 and 40, also for illegal mining.

“The police further confiscated a Toyota bakkie and mining implements, believed to be used in the commission of illicit mining. The police will continue with their proactive illicit mining operational activities, and other related crimes in the targeted areas.

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