Picture: Nine suspects nabbed in connection of illicit mining/Supplied
By STAFF REPORTER
19 March 2026 – In response to illegal mining activities around the Frances Baard District, the members conducting Operation Vala Umgodi duties acted on a tip-off regarding people who were allegedly actively involved in illegal mining at a specific mining area. The police conducted a search at the identified premises and discovered individuals inside the mining area in possession of suspected diamond bearing gravel.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said this led to the arrest of nine suspects, including two females and seven males between the ages of 40 and 70, for trespassing and illicit mining on 18 March 2026, at the Sol Plaatje private property in the Florianville mining area. Shemane said mining implements believed to be used in the commission of illegal mining activities were confiscated by the police.
“The Frances Baard District illicit mining operations will continue unabated in the district,” he said.
The Guardian 