Members from District Visible Policing, in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force, executed an operation at Van Ryn Mining. This operation was undertaken to address illegal mining activities that have resulted in considerable environmental degradation and posed serious risks to public safety.
The operation culminated in the arrest of three individuals found hiding in a shallow excavated area within the mining site.
During their routine patrols, officers observed suspected illegal miners attempting to flee to a shallow hole. The officers promptly pursued the suspects and conducted thorough searches.
One individual, a citizen of Lesotho, was found in possession of an illegal firearm and ammunition and was subsequently arrested at the scene.
Another individual, a citizen of Mozambique, was found in possession of explosives and was immediately arrested
Additionally, a second Mozambican citizen was apprehended for contravening the Immigration Act.
Major General Anna Sithole commended the efforts of all the members from the police and SANDF who participated in this operation. She praised their dedication and commitment to public safety.
She further reaffirmed the police’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all citizens and emphasized the importance of collaborating with relevant stakeholders to address the escalating issues associated with illegal mining.
Illegal miners arrested and firearms recovered during operations https://t.co/2v5Gtlzlun#ArriveAlive #TrioCrimes #Operations @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/IEnjqHyqzl
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) February 17, 2025
