18-YEAR-OLD UNDOCUMENTED FOREIGN NATIONAL TO APPEAR IN COURT FOR ILLEGAL PROCESSING OF PRESUMED GOLD-BEARING MINERALS
GRAVELOTTE – The members of Operation Vala Umgodi in Mopani District, Limpopo, have arrested an 18-year-old foreign national male for illegal mining activities during a disruptive operation conducted in Gravelotte on Sunday, 23 February 2025. The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Namakgale Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 February 2025.
According to the information received from police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, it it reported that at approximately 10:30, members conducting reconnaissance at the illegal mining site requested backup, prompting the entire team to move to the Modupe illegal gold mine. Upon arrival, officers tactically approached the mining area, covering the mountainous terrain through foot patrols. During the operation, five (05) old mining shafts were inspected, all showing recent signs of illegal mining activity, including fresh footprints. Officers also detected voices coming from inside one of the shafts.
An extensive search was conducted across the entire mining site. At approximately 13:50, three (03) miners emerged from a shaft and began processing unwrought precious minerals, suspected to be gold. When police tactically approached them, the miners noticed the officers and attempted to flee into the surrounding bushes in different directions. However, the police managed to apprehend one suspect, who was found to be in the country without valid documentation.
The suspect has been charged with the illegal processing of unwrought precious minerals (gold-bearing) and contravention of the Immigration Act. He is currently detained at SAPS Gravelotte, pending his court appearance.
The following items were seized during the operation:
01 x Spade
01 x 2.5 kg of unwrought precious minerals (presumed gold-bearing materials)
01 x Small black headlamp
Police investigations are ongoing
Soyrce: perfectradio