Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Northern Cape

KIMBERLEY - The disruptive illegal mining operations continue unabated in Kleinzee.

On Thursday, 14 March 2024, whilst members of Operation Vala Umgodi executed waylay duties and vehicle check points they encountered a blue Mazda bakkie with six occupants and the bakkie loaded with 11 bags containing possible diamond bearing gravel and tools.

All six suspects between the ages of 22 and 37 were arrested for illegal mining and the bakkie confiscated.

The operation led to the arrest another 12 undocumented Lesotho Nationals and two South Africans between the ages of 22 and 40 for illegal mining.

The police further confiscated a Toyota bakkie and mining implements, believed to have been used in the commission of illicit mining.

Police will continue with their proactive illicit mining operational activities and other related crimes in the targeted areas.

Ends

Enquiries:
Sergeant Molefi Shemane
071 310 9507

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SAPoliceService
Instagram: https://instagram.com/sapoliceservice_za/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SAPoliceService
Website: www.saps.gov.za