By OBAKENG MAJE
10 March 2025- Zimbabwean man (21) was arrested for unlawful possession of explosives during an intelligence-led operation in Klerksdorp. The police said this was part of combating illegal mining and other crimes.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said the suspect, who allegedly tried to flee after becoming aware of the police, was arrested in the bushes near a shopping mall by members of the National Intervention Unit (NIU). Myburgh said inside his vehicle, police allegedly found a variety of explosives, including capped fuses, 30 blasting cartridges and 50m of detonating cord.
“Initial investigations indicated that the explosives are used to commit cash in transit heists, explode Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) as well as utilisation in illegal mining activities. The suspect will appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Monday, on charges of unlawful possession of explosives,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, applauded all members involved in the multi-disciplinary operation for their diligence that resulted in bringing the suspect to book. Asaneng said the public is advised to report crime, including through the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the MySAPS application anonymously.
“Extortion-related incidents can be reported on the Extortion hotline on 080 091 1011,” he said.
The Guardian 