Suspected stolen chrome worth over R20m: 2 in Limpopo court

Two mining executives, Gary (63) and Justin Mark Mitchell (31), have been released on R5 000 each after they on Monday appeared in the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo.

The duo face charges of possession of suspected stolen chrome, after their arrests in Burgersfort last Friday, after allegedly being found in possession of suspected stolen chrome valued at over R20m.

According to Limpopo Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Lethunya Mmuroa, the arrests followed the earlier apprehension of geologist Jan Aucamp (64), who was arrested by the Hawks at Triton Mineral Africa in Steelpoort on December 12, 2023. Aucamp was allegedly found with piles of chrome valued at R20m and was unable to produce a permit for its possession.

“The Hawks requested him to provide documentation for the chrome, but when he could not, he was arrested for the possession of suspected stolen chrome,” said Mmuroa.

Further investigations revealed that the Mitchells, who reportedly held top positions at Triton Mineral Africa, were also linked to the illegal chrome operation. The case was referred to the Director of Public Prosecution, which led to the issuance of arrest warrants for the two executives.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the chrome had been illegally mined from various mines in the Sekhukhune district.

The Mitchells’ case has been referred to the Burgersfort Regional Court for a hearing on January 27 and 28. Aucamp, who is also out on R5 000 bail, is expected to join them in court.

Limpopo Hawks head General Gopz Govender praised the team’s efforts in combating illegal mining in the province. “Illegal mining is a serious crime, often driven by organised criminal networks. The Hawks remain resolute in tackling these activities,” he said, adding that operations will continue to dismantle illegal mining in Limpopo.