Six illegal miners have been apprehended at two separate shafts in Stilfontein as part of ongoing efforts to combat unlawful mining in the region. Provincial police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone confirmed that the individuals face multiple charges, including illegal mining, trespassing, and contravention of the Immigration Act.
According to Mokgwabone, four of the miners resurfaced at the Margaret Shaft, while the remaining two were extracted from Buffels Shaft No. 11. The arrested individuals include three undocumented nationals from Lesotho, two from Zimbabwe, and one from Mozambique. One of the suspects will also face an additional charge for possession of gold-bearing material.
Recent Developments in Anti-Illegal Mining Operations
The arrests come shortly after 27 teenage boys were handed over to the Mozambique consulate on Tuesday. The boys had emerged from disused mines over a month ago, further highlighting the ongoing issues related to illegal mining in the region.
Since the launch of Operation Vala Umgodi by North West police in October, more than 1,400 illegal miners have come to the surface, reflecting the scale of the challenge faced by authorities.
Court Sentences for Illegal Mining
In a related development, 19 illegal miners were sentenced last week by the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court to 24 months’ imprisonment, suspended for five years. The convictions were for violations of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act. The group, arrested last month, included 14 individuals from Lesotho, four from Mozambique, and one from Zimbabwe. Mokgwabone added that these individuals were also penalized for being in the country illegally.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing illegal mining activities, which pose significant economic, environmental, and safety risks.