Illegal mining equipment seized during police operation in Sabie
The high density operation saw the arrest of more than 15 suspects on various charges.
A high density operation by the SAPS led to the arrest of 18 suspects for various offences, and illegal mining equipment was seized in Sabie on November 23.
The operation, in collaboration with the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, community policing forums, Thaba Chweu municipal law enforcement and security companies, aimed at tackling illegal mining in the area.
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According to a provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, during the operation five detonators, five explosive gels, 28 maximum blasting cartridges, one reel of detonating cord, one generator, nine phendukas, seven gas bottles, nine motors, two weighing scales, 15 backup batteries, two shovels, one mining torch and 70 plastic bags filled with dagga were seized.
Mohlala said the suspects were arrested on charges including the obstruction of police officials’ duty, possession of substances suspected to be dagga, sleeping in business premises and contravention of Immigration Act.