By BAKANG MOKOTO
14 December 2025- In a remarkable display of cooperation and resolve, the police in Mooinooi solidified the pursuit of safety in the community to neutralise the threat posed by illegal miners within the area. A formidable team composed of members from the Tactical Response Team (TRT), Public Order Policing (POP) and Visible Policing (VISPOL) commenced with an operation on 12 December 2025.
The North West police spokesperson, Constable Thuto Bobelo said upon arrival in Mooinooi, the police discovered eleven suspects that were digging within the area and two bakkies were found with stones/rocks inside suspected to be chrome. Bobelo said all eleven suspects aged between 20 and 45, were arrested for illegal mining and two motor vehicles and various tools that were used to dig were seized.
“In addition, two of the eleven suspects were found to be undocumented foreign nationals and were charged with contravention of Section 49 of the Immigration Act (2002).
“The accused are expected to make their first court appearance on 15 December 2025, before the Brits Magistrate’s Court,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, commended the team’s bravery and hard work in combating illegal mining. Naidoo stated that the police will work relentlessly to combat illegal mining and lawlessness.
The Guardian 