EMPD operation puts 26 zama zamas behind bars

An operation led by the EMPD with the assistance of a local security company, Blue Hawk Tactical Defensive Strategies Unit saw 26 zama zamas being arrested near the Putfontein Road bridge on the N12 on May 4.

According to Capt Nomsa Sekele, spokesperson for the Benoni SAPS, 32 people were initially arrested. Some were released as they were minors.

“The suspects aged between 18 and 44 were are all foreign nationals and mining implements such as pick axes, hammers, shovels as well as 15 bags of gold dust were seized,” said Sekele.

“They are being remanded in the police holding cells.”

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