Zimbabweans arrested for illegal mining in South Africa

By SA media

SOUTH AFRICA: Three suspects from Zimbabwe and Mozambique aged between 32 and 35, were arrested for illegal mining at Shivan Mine Dam in Klerksdorp during Operation Vala Umgodi.

The suspects were arrested by the Dr Kenneth Kaunda Illegal Mining Task Team assisted by the Explosive Unit, as part of combating illegal mining.

The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh said the police received a tip-off and operationalised it. Myburgh said on arrival at the mine, numerous persons were observed busy with illegal mining activities.

“On seeing the police, they fled from the scene, but police managed to arrest three suspects (two are Zimbabweans and one is from Mozambique). On the premises, police allegedly found a variety of explosives, including 20 capped fuses, 20 blasting cartridges and 120m of detonating cord.

“Furthermore, 13 generators, two water pumps and five mining drills were also confiscated. The suspects will appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court 27 March 2025, facing charges of unlawful possession of explosives, illegal mining and the Contravention of Section 49 of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002),” she said.

Meanwhile, acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, applauded the police involved in the operation for their ongoing efforts that resulted in bringing the suspects 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.