KLEINZEE, NAMAKWA DISTRICT – Six Zimbabwean nationals have been arrested in a crackdown on illegal mining activities in Kleinzee, Namakwa District, Northern Cape.
According to Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam, the suspects, all male and aged between 20 and 43, were apprehended on June 25 for engaging in illicit mining activities.
The arrests were made by the multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team, which includes members from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and the Department of Home Affairs.
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The team had been conducting surveillance around the mining areas in Kleinzee, and their efforts paid off when they observed the men allegedly involved in illegal mining.
During the operation, various pieces of mining equipment were confiscated, including a generator, a jackhammer, an electric extension cord, and bags containing suspected diamond-bearing gravel.
These items were seized as evidence to support the charges against the suspects.
The suspects are currently awaiting their court appearance at the Port Nolloth Magistrate’s Court, where they will face charges related to illegal mining activities.
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Sergeant Sam emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating illegal mining and encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities.
“We urge community members to remain vigilant and to report any illegal mining activities to the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. If you see something, say something,” he urged.
This successful operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to tackle illegal mining in the Northern Cape and to protect the region’s natural resources from exploitation.
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