Twelve foreign nationals have been arrested in the Free State for their involvement in illegal mining activities, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS). The arrests were made during a coordinated operation led by the Mission Area Joint Operational Center (MAJOC) Roving team, which included combat operators, proactive officers, and various participants in Operation Valu uMgodi.
The operation took place on Saturday, when the suspects were caught in the act of illegal mining. It was carried out in several known hotspots across the province, including the Stone and Allied area, Bambanani SS1 Slam Dam, Kudu Mine Shaft, Stilte Farm, and G-Hostel in Thabong Extension 4. The authorities used a combination of foot patrols, vehicle patrols, air-to-ground drone surveillance, and vehicle checkpoints during the operation.
During the operation, the suspects were found with 132.52 kilograms of gold-bearing material, along with mining tools such as steel balls, garden spades, shovels, pick axes, steel plates, buckets, and washing basins. These items were seized as evidence.
The arrested individuals, aged between 26 and 40, now face several charges, including possession of suspected gold-bearing material, illegal gold processing equipment, trespassing, and violating the Immigration Act. They are expected to appear in court soon.
