By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
24 March 2025- Eleven suspects were arrested for various offenses, including contravention of the Illicit Mining Act during weekend operations that began on 21 March 2025. In ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, the Northern Cape’s multi-disciplinary teams execute Operation Vala Umgodi in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the arrested suspects face charges for the contravention of the Illicit Mining Act, the Immigration Act, and charges related to the possession and dealing of drugs. Sam said the suspects were apprehended while engaging in illicit activities at the Samaria and Nuttabooi mining areas in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts, respectively in the Northern Cape.
“Additionally, arrests were made during stop-and-search operations at Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), as well as during the execution of search warrants. A variety of mining implements were confiscated, including generators, extension cords, spades, bags containing suspected diamond-bearing gravel, sieves, and a range of illegal drugs such as mandrax, dagga, and crystal meth.
“Meanwhile, motorists found to be in violation of traffic laws were fined for contravening the Road Traffic Management Act. The arrested suspects are scheduled to appear in the respective Magistrate’s courts soon,” he said.
Sam said people should say something, if they see something. He said they can report illegal mining to SAPS Crime Stop 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
The Guardian 