A joint operation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Klerksdorp District Illegal Mining Task Team, Tactical Response Team, SAPS Mounted Unit, Visible Policing, Public Order Policing, Explosives Unit, Dog Unit, and officials from Harmony Gold Mine, led to the arrest of eight suspects on 25 April 2023 at Wolwerand mine in Klerksdop.
The multidisciplinary team was following up on information regarding illegal mining activities reported to have been taking place at the mine. As the team approached the mine, they were spotted by the suspects who immediately went into hiding. The area was thoroughly searched and one suspect was arrested in possession of a 9mm pistol and ammunition. Seven additional suspects were subsequently found and arrested.
Illegal mining paraphernalia was seized including, 20 generators, 24 drill rods, many liters of petrol, jackhammers, pendukas, grease gun, capped fuses, blasting cartridges and detonating cords.
All suspects will make their…
