By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
June 2025- Eleven suspects aged between 29 and 44 were arrested at illegal mining hot-spots in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts during Operation Vala Umgodi. The police said the disruptive actions were conducted by the multi-disciplinary pro-active and combat teams deployed from 3 until 6 June 2025 in the Kimberley and Kleinzee area.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said during the operations, members received a tip-off about suspected illegal miners hiding at a Game Reserve Farm, near Koingnaas. Pilane said the police operationalised the information and nine men were arrested.
“They were charged with various offences, including Contravention of Immigration laws, trespassing and possession of unpolished diamonds.
“Meanwhile, two men were arrested for Contravention of Immigration Laws when members were conducting compliance inspections and the owner was issued with a fine for employing an undocumented person in Beaconsfield in Kimberley,” he said.
Pilane further said various mining implements were confiscated at disused mine dumps in both districts. He added that the fight against illegal mining remains a priority for the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Northern Cape and efforts will be intensified to dismantle these operations.
“Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious criminal activities via the MYSAPS App or the 08600 10111 crime stop number,” said Pilane.
The Guardian 