| 2025/05/16 |
Media Statement FREE STATE - The holistic, multifaceted, multidisciplinary, integrated Operation Vala uMgodi continues to make good progress in Free State Province. Combat operators team received a tip-off from the community about illicit mining activities at the address in Putswa-stene Section, Thabong near Welkom. A recce [observation and reconnaissance] was held on the house and a thorough plan worked out. The team tactically pounced on the target and found three gold nuggets weighing 10.50 grams. The operators also seized gold bearing material weighing at 25.60 kilograms. Gold processing equipment such as 12.5kg oxygen cylinder, 9kg gas bottle, cutting torch, connector pipes with regulators, crusable pots, steel plate, Borax and mercury we seized by the police. The 36-year-old suspect was immediately placed under arrest and a case docket of Possession of unrought precious metals, Possession of suspected gold bearing material and gold processing equipment was opened at Thabong police station. The collaborative effort to eradicate illegal mining between South African Police Service and Private Security Companies continue to bear good results. Five gold bearing amalgam nuggets were brought to the surface by SSG [Specialized Security Group] Tactical Underground Team. The team also recovered contraband foodstuffs such as energy powder, spices, vegetable oil, corned meat, soya mince, powdered milk, soya mince and instant porridge. Explosives detonators, welding machine and rods were also recovered from a plant where illegal underground miners were operating.
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