The Sekhukhune District Vala Umgodi Task Team has conducted a series of targeted operations aimed at curbing illegal mining activities in the area. These efforts have resulted in the successful interception and arrest of multiple suspects involved in illegal chrome mining.
On the night of 3 July, at approximately 23:10, the team received a credible tip-off regarding illegal mining activities at Ga-Phasha within the Makhuduthamaga Municipality, Jane Furse policing precinct. Acting promptly on this intelligence, officers responded to the location and intercepted a TLB tractor and a tipper truck suspected of loading chrome. Upon noticing police presence, the TLB operator fled the scene on foot, leaving behind the keys. A 45-year-old male, operating the tipper truck, was apprehended at the scene. He has been charged with illegal mining and immigration violations.
In a subsequent operation early on 4 July, at approximately 00:30, further intelligence was received about ongoing illegal mining activities at Diphale Village. Officers located and intercepted a grey BMW 2 Series matching the provided description. Two African male occupants were detained and interviewed, revealing their involvement in chrome loading operations. The team then discovered a loading site where a male suspect was actively loading chrome onto a white and black FAW tipper truck. The suspect confirmed he was accompanied by two other males, who fled upon seeing the police.
Shortly thereafter, a blue Ford Raptor arrived with five African male occupants. All five individuals were detained and later charged with illegal mining activities. The suspects’ ages range from 24 to 45 years.
The South African Police Service remains resolute in protecting our natural resources and will persist in dismantling illegal mining syndicates through ongoing operations. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
