The prompt response from Limpopo Vala Umgodi multidisciplinary forces has led to the arrest of 20 suspects involved in illegal mining, drug dealing and violations of immigration laws.
In a statement on Tuesday, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, said chrome worth over R1 million was also seized during an operation conducted on Sunday, following credible information from the community.
In Sekhukhune District, the task team acted on a tip-off regarding a drug dealer operating at the Groblersdal taxi rank.
Hadebe said the team’s swift response led to the arrest of a 31-year-old suspect, who was found in possession of 34 sachets of rock drugs, including 36 sachets of nyaope, 31 sachets of dagga, one plastic bag containing dagga and R656 in cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
A 53-year-old male suspect was also arrested at the same taxi rank for possession of four packs of illicit Remington Gold cigarettes.
“Further investigations led the team to a farm in Dithamaga village, Burgersfort, where illegal mining activities were taking place. Two male suspects, aged 38 and 58, were apprehended for illegally mining chrome with an excavator,” Hadebe said.
A total of 13 loads of chrome, with an estimated value of R1 058 560, and an excavator were also confiscated.
“In separate operations across the Capricorn, Mopani and Vhembe Districts, 15 individuals, aged between 22 and 41 years, were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act. The suspects were found to be in the country without the necessary documentation,” Hadebe said.
Hadebe has commended the joint efforts of the police and the community in combatting crime in the province.
She said the suspects are expected to appear before the respective magistrate’s courts in due course.
Twelve arrested for illicit mining in Northern Cape
Meanwhile, the continuous intelligence-driven disruptive operations conducted by the multidisciplinary teams of Operation Vala Umgodi, with a focus on illicit mining and other related crimes, has led to the arrest of 12 suspects in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts, Northern Cape.
Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane, said police received information about suspected illegal mining activities taking place at a mining hotspot in Kleinzee, in the west coast of the Northern Cape.
Further investigation led to the arrest of four suspects, aged between 35 and 57, for alleged illegal mining and trespassing on Saturday.
“The police seized equipment suspected to be used in the commission of illicit mining, and bags containing possible suspected diamond bearing material,” Shemane said.
In Frances Baard District, the police also received information about illegal activities taking place at identified locations in Barkly West.
Shemane said the police arrested five undocumented persons between the ages of 26 and 47, as well as the seizure of ammunition.
“Furthermore, members received information regarding the sale of drugs in Windsorton and upon arrival, a male suspect was searched, and suspected drugs were found in his possession. The 65-year-old suspect was subsequently arrested,” Shemane said.
During a search in another location in Kimberley, drugs were found and confiscated. A 50-year-old man was arrested for possession of drugs.
In an unrelated matter, a 36-year-old male was apprehended on Sunday in Galeshewe for dealing in drugs.
“Drugs with an estimated value of R3 000 were confiscated with a substantial amount of money believed to be the proceeds of criminal activities,” Shemane said.
Shemane has reassured that the police will continue with their concerted efforts in addressing illicit mining activities, as well as other related crimes.
The public is reminded to report any criminal activities to SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or use the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za
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