In a decisive move to combat illegal mining, the Vala Umgodi Task Team conducted targeted operations driven by credible intelligence on Friday, June 13, 2025. The operations, aimed at dismantling illegal mining activities at two prominent sites—Sefateng Chrome Mine and Bokone Platinum Mine—underscored the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the environment.
Sefateng Chrome Mine Raid
At approximately 01:30, the task team responded to reports of illegal mining at Sefateng Chrome Mine. Upon arrival, authorities discovered stockpiles of chromite ore and apprehended two suspects—a 38-year-old man and a 17-year-old Zimbabwean male. Both were arrested for illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act.
The suspects were detained at Mecklenburg SAPS, and the following items were seized as evidence:
-
A blue jackhammer
-
A generator
-
Two wheelbarrows
-
A pickaxe and shovel
-
Electric cords
-
A 20-liter petrol container
-
One liter of petrol
Bokone Platinum Mine Operation
Acting on further intelligence, the task team uncovered additional illegal mining activities at Bokone Platinum Mine around 03:30 the same day. Two suspects, aged 45 and 39, were arrested on charges of illegal mining and Immigration Act violations.
Authorities confiscated multiple pieces of equipment, including:
-
A generator
-
Two jackhammers
-
Four shovels
-
Electric cords
-
A white multi-plug
-
A white Toyota Hilux
-
A TATA tipper truck loaded with 21,140 kg of chromite
