Ten suspects were arrested for possession of gold-bearing material during an intensive Opertion Vala uMgodi sting in and near Welkom.
A team of police members, along with combat, proactive operators, drone pilots and private security companies executed disruptive illicit mining policing actions in Old St Helena Phoenix 500, Old Steyn 2 Mine, Old Western Holdings 05 Mine, African Rainbow Mineral.
The team conducted patrols in areas such as FS1 bushes and farms such as Voelkraandvlei and Stilte, where ventilation shafts are situated.
During the operation, the team seized gold-bearing material weighing at 340.28kg.
Gold-processing equipment such as gwala, shovels, garden spades, pick axes, steel plates and a self-made strainer were also seized.
Case dockets of possession of suspected gold-bearing material, gold processing equipment, and trespassing on mine area.
Additionally, a case of contravention of the Immigration Act was opened at the Welkom, Virginia and Theunissen Police Stations, says Lt Col Thabo Covane, Corporate Communication and Liaison: Free State.
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