SIX foreign nationals were arrested in the Kliprivier area, Vaal on Friday afternoon, 16 February for illegal gold refining.
Their arrest was part of an operation on illicit mining. This after the police received information about an illegal gold refinery plant on a plot in Kliprivier. Cops then observed it for several days and verified illegal activities taking place on the plot.
According to Sedibeng district commissioner Major-General Nkhensani Lemba, a search warrant was obtained to search the plot and a tactical operation was launched in conjunction with drone policing, Sedibeng infrastructure unit, Sedibeng task team, Sedibeng K9, Kliprivier SAPS, AfriGuard Security and the Rangers.
She said the police arrested suspects in possession of illegal implements for mining and for running an illegal gold refinery.
"The police seized seven phenduka machines, six electrical motors, gold bearing material and gold soil to the value of R2,5 million. I applaud the team, especially crime intelligence who worked tirelessly in clamping down illegal mining that was taking place on the plot. The community is asked to give information about illegal activities in their areas,” she said.
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Lemba warned community members to desist from engaging in illegal mining activities as the police will not hesitate to arrest those dealing with illegal mining in the region and all criminal activities.
Gauteng police spokeswoman Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said six people were arrested on Friday after they were found busy with illegal mining activities on a plot in Kliprivier.
"Bags of gold-bearing material and phendukas were sized," he said.
Nevhuhulwi said the suspects are expected to appear in court soon on a charge of illegal mining.
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