Seven Arrested for Illegal Mining in Northern Cape; 15 More Detained in Operations

According to a statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Sunday, the arrests were made following a comprehensive effort to tackle illegal mining activities.

In a coordinated crackdown on illegal mining, seven suspects were arrested in the Frances Baard District of the Northern Cape, thanks to operations carried out by a multi-disciplinary team. The operation involved the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services, Springbok K9 and Port Nolloth Crime Prevention Units, and Provincial Traffic officers.

According to a statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Sunday, the arrests were made following a comprehensive effort to tackle illegal mining activities. The suspects, including undocumented foreign nationals, were detained for further verification by immigration officials.

During the operation, authorities confiscated numerous mining implements believed to be used in illegal mining activities. Additionally, 15 more undocumented individuals were detained at vehicle checkpoints set up at the Port Nolloth/Kleinsee intersection and the Bontakoe informal settlement, bringing the total number of arrests to 22.

The SAPS is urging the public to report any suspicious or illegal activities, including illegal mining, by calling the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111.