In a multi-disciplinary operation in the Northern Cape, 29 foreign nationals were arrested for illicit mining activities.

The Operation Vala Umgodi team, tasked with combating illicit mining activities, were executed on Friday, August 16 in the Namakwa district.

Police did not divulge the nationality of the group.

The provincial police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam said the operation resulted in the arrest of the group.

Police on-site at one of the holes where mining has taken place. Photo: SAPS

“These actions resulted in the arrest of 29 undocumented persons in and around the Sizamile location in Port Nolloth, Bontekoei and Nataboi mining areas. Teams comprising of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services and Springbok Public Order Police, executed the disruptive activities.

“Numerous mining implements and diamond-bearing gravel were confiscated during these operations. The suspects were detained in order to be processed and verified by the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services officials before being formally charged and presented to court for deportation,” Sam said.

Police have urged anyone who sees anything suspicious to report illegal mining to Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

The foreign nationals arrested. Photo: SAPS

In a separate incident in the North West, police arrested nine people after ongoing protest along the N12 in Ikageng.

Public Order Police (POP), working along with the Tactical Response Team (TRT) and other law enforcement agencies including traffic and Fire and Rescue Services, are monitoring the situation.

“At this stage, nine suspects have been arrested after being found looting from a shop at an informal settlement known as Serope. It has been noted with concern that despite a plea made to parents to take care and ensure that children are not used in criminal protests, the police spotted some children at Extension 11, putting barricades on the road and pelting vehicles with stones,” police spokesperson, Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said.

Police reiterated that criminality will not be condoned and those who commit crime will be dealt with harshly.

robin.francke@iol.co.za

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