Operation shuts down illegal mining in Sundra area
The various operational teams focused on raiding and closing illicit mining operations in the Sundra area.
Four illegal mine sites were closed during a multi-disciplinary operation in the Sundra and Rietkol areas on September 26.
In a concerted effort between various operational teams, they focused on raiding and closing illicit mining operations in the Sundra area.
Under the flag of Operation Vala Umgodi and with 70 law enforcers, the teams were successful in the fight against illegal mining in the area.
The teams comprised members from the Sundra SAPS, the Department of Home Affairs and Immigration, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, National Crime Intelligence, the National Local Criminal Record Centre, Witbank Crime Intelligence and the Sundra Bulldogs Neighbourhood Watch.
According to Warrant Officer Welma Kirby from the Sundra SAPS, the team seized illegal mining equipment valued at R400 000, which included pendukas, electrical motors and much more.
“They also seized a further 576 tons of suspected gold-bearing material during the operation,” said Kirby.
Cyanide and carbon were among the items seized.
Kirby confirmed the arrests of 21 people during the operation. According to Kirby, it was one of the largest operations of its kind that the Sundra SAPS has seen.
“The Sundra SAPS commends all the parties involved to make Operation Vala Umgodi such a huge success in the police precinct of Sundra,” Kirby concluded.
