By OBAKENG MAJE

More than 16 suspects were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act and Illicit Mining Act in Kleinsee on 26 January 2024. The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said numerous illicit mining equipment, including generators, jack hammers, drills, bags with diamond bearing gravel, sieves, shovels, crushers and cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime were confiscated.

Sam said the suspects were arrested during a joint Operation Vala Umgodi between South African Police Service (SAPS) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

“The law enforcement agencies are relentless in combating illicit mining activities. The suspects will appear in the Port Nolloth Magistrate’s Court on 29 January 2024.

“The police will continue to disrupt illegal mining activities in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders,” he said.

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