A police operation targeting illegal mining at the Kopanang mine in South Africa resulted in the arrest of 55 undocumented individuals and the discovery of a suspect in possession of drugs. Authorities also confiscated contraband and arrested an individual for illegal gold mining near Bedelia.
A police operation at the Kopanang mine hostels resulted in the arrest of 55 undocumented individuals and the apprehension of a suspect found in possession of drugs. The mine is situated on the border of the Free State and North West provinces. Bloemfontein Courant reports that Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane states that the operation, spearheaded by the multidisciplinary Operation Vala uMgodi team, focused on combating illegal mining and associated criminal activities.
'A total of 27 females and 28 males were arrested for trespassing on mine property and violating the Immigration Act. Two children, aged eight and 13, were taken to a place of safety by Social Welfare officials,' adds Covane. Authorities also confiscated contraband discovered at the scene, including mercury, drill bits, battery cells, and food supplies, which were purportedly left behind by illegal underground miners. In a separate incident during the operation, a 39-year-old man was apprehended for illegal mining near Hamlet Road in Bedelia. 'Gold-bearing material weighing 18.08kg, along with mining tools, were seized,' confirms Covane. A case of possession of suspected gold-bearing material and contravention of the act has been opened at Welkom Police Station. The suspects are scheduled to appear in court shortly
ILLEGAL MINING ARRESTS IMMIGRATION CONTRABAND SOUTH AFRICA
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