By OBAKENG MAJE
18 December 2025- As part of the Festive Season Operations and ongoing efforts to eradicate illicit mining, a multi-disciplinary operation led by the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, was conducted in the Namakwa District on 16 December 2025. Early morning clean-up operations were executed simultaneously in Kleinzee, Nuttabooi, and Bontekoe.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said the operation involved multi-disciplinary teams comprising various SAPS units from the district and provincial components, supported by the Department of Home Affairs (Immigration), the Border Management Authority, and the National Prosecuting Authority. Ehlers said the joint efforts focused on addressing illicit mining activities and the presence of undocumented foreign nationals.
“During the operation, 11 undocumented foreign nationals were apprehended and handed over to Immigration officials for further processing. Tools and equipment believed to have been used in the commission of illicit mining activities were also confiscated.
“Phase two of the operation focused on targeted raids at identified premises in Port Nolloth, conducted in collaboration with Crime Intelligence. Crime Intelligence-driven and targeted disruptive operations will continue unabated across the province during the festive season and beyond to curb illicit mining and related criminal activities,” she said.
The Guardian 