Johannesburg - The police in Mpumalanga have revealed that five suspects aged between 18 and 57 were caught for reported illegal mining-related charges.
It is explained that when the suspects were apprehended by security officers in Lydenburg, they were found with gold-bearing dust.
They are expected to appear at the Mashishing Magistrates Court on Monday, July 3, 2023, for charges of illegal possession of gold-bearing dust as well as illegal mining-related charges.
“According to the report, information reached the ears of security personnel regarding some suspicious activities being carried out at an old mine shaft in Lydenburg.
“The information was followed by law enforcement agencies in Lydenburg, where it was observed that there could be something sinister taking place in the old mine.
“A Toyota Etios with one occupant was spotted next to the mine, and when he noticed the guards, he reportedly tried to flee, but he was soon caught.
“Upon further questioning, it was then learned that the man was allegedly part of a group that was operating as illegal miners (zama zamas) at the old shaft.
“Four of his fellows were inside the shaft when the guards arrived, and they later came out around 3.30pm, carrying some bags that contained gold-bearing dust, as the information outlines.
“They were then apprehended together with the man who was waiting in the vehicle. The five were charged accordingly.”
The provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant-General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has welcomed the arrest of the five alleged illegal miners and appreciated the vigilance displayed by the security officers.
The Star