The Northern Cape’s multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team launched a series of actions in the Frances Baard and Namakwa districts recently, leading to the arrest of 21 individuals for violating illicit mining and immigration laws.
THE NORTHERN Cape’s multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team recently successfully executed a series of actions aimed at combating illicit mining activities in the Frances Baard and Namakwa districts.
These operations, which commenced on Saturday, August 10, resulted in the arrest of 21 suspects for violations of the Illicit Mining and Immigration statutes.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam detailed the collaborative efforts of the SA National Defence Force, the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services and the Springbok SAPS Public Order Police unit. The teams conducted disruptive activities in the Namakwa District, specifically targeting the Bontakoe, Nattabooi, Koingnaas and Ottieskopie mining areas. Their strategies included vehicle checkpoints (VCPs) and crime prevention patrols.
During these operations, numerous mining implements believed to have been used in illegal mining activities were confiscated. Additionally, several offenders were fined for contravening the Road Traffic Management Act.
The undocumented suspects are currently detained and undergoing processing and verification by the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services. They will be formally charged and presented to court for deportation.
Sergeant Sam urged the public to report any illegal mining activities to the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. “If you see something, say something,” he emphasised.
