By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Five undocumented foreign nationals, aged between 19 and 34, were arrested on Christmas Eve on suspicion of participating in illegal mining in Limpopo.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the suspects were arrested on Sunday, (24 December 2023),at Selwane Village, under Lulekani policing area.
Members of the Mopani Illegal Mining Task Team arrived at the old mining shaft in Selwane and found a group of people in the act of illegal mining.
“As the police were approaching the suspects, one of them opened fire before he returned underground,” said police spokesperson in Limpopo Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba.
“Police managed to arrest the four suspects and started searching for the one who went underground.
“He was eventually arrested but his firearm could not be found.”
The suspects were found in possession of picks, spades, an iron digging bar, shovels and torches. One bag containing suspected precious minerals was also confiscated.
In addition, members of the Mopani Illegal Mining Task Team have recovered and seized various abandoned mining equipment, groceries, and cooking utensils in the area, which indicated there are other illegal miners in the area.
The Limpopo Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrest and hailed the team’s endless efforts.
Brigadier Mashaba said, the arrested suspects are expected to appear before the Lulekani Magistrate’s Court in due course, facing charges of illegal mining, attempted murder and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Members of the community can report illegal mining activities to Crime Stop on 08600 10111, their nearest police station or use the My SAPS App.