Operation Vala uMgodi has intensified its actions against illegal mining, forcing the underground zama-zamas to abandon their mining activities and surrender to authorities.
On Sunday, 22 September, 13 suspects associated with illegal mining, illegal immigration, and drugs were arrested during heightened operations held at the Kopanong and Beatrix Gold Mines.
Concerted efforts by the police and other role players such as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Home Affairs, and private security companies have seen the food supply to underground illegal miners severed.
Three suspects, aged between 25 and 37 years, were arrested at the Kopanong mine and gold-bearing amalgam was found in their possession.
Actions continued in the Beatrix Mine. Officials patrolled the mining area on foot and in vehicles. They also used a drone and way-lays were held.
“Two males were spotted and as the teams closed-in on them, the suspects went down an old mine shaft opening using a rope,” says Lt Col. Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the Free State police.
Covane says the team then recovered a Gerstenberger and Co. Original EM-GE .32 pistol, foodstuffs (tinned fish and beans), and instant porridge.
“They also found dried dagga leaves, believed to fetch a profit estimated at R12 000 when sold to underground illegal miners,” he says.
Ten undocumented people were arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act.
