The Crusade Against Illicit Mining in South Africa: A Worthy Endeavor

The South African Police Service is tackling illegal mining in Limpopo province through a collaborative initiative involving multiple stakeholders. During the initiative’s second phase, 220 suspects were arrested, and over R126 million worth of illegal mining equipment was confiscated. The operation aims to maintain law and order, preserve resources, and promote legal economic activities. Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe stressed the importance of dismantling syndicates and safeguarding communities, and local authorities praised the team’s efforts.

The South African Police Service has launched the second phase of the Annual Festive Season Inspection Roadshow, which aims to eradicate illegal mining activities in Limpopo province. The collaborative initiative involves multiple stakeholders and emphasizes the dedication of law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order, preserve resources, and promote legal economic activities. During the disruptive operations conducted from August 15, 2023, to December 31, 2023, an impressive total of 220 suspects were arrested, and over R126 million worth of illegal mining equipment was confiscated.

The Fight Against Illegal Mining in South Africa

In the heartland of South Africa’s Limpopo province, a campaign against illicit mining activities is taking place on a grand scale. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched the second phase of the Annual Festive Season Inspection Roadshow. This strategic plan aims to disrupt and eradicate illegal mining activities in this region. This move highlights a significant step in the ongoing fight against unlawful mining. It emphasizes the dedication of law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order, preserving resources, and promoting legal economic activities.

The operation is a collaborative initiative headed by the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe. It involves multiple stakeholders such as the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), and others. This collective endeavor is committed to establishing a secure and prosperous environment for all, with a specific focus on the persistent issue of illegal mining in the province.

On January 2, 2024, Lieutenant General Hadebe, along with her management team and stakeholders, made an appearance in the Sekhukhune district. This visit, a part of the Safer Festive Season Inspection Roadshow, laid the groundwork for proactive and disruptive operations aimed at combating illegal mining activities.

The Harsh Reality of Illegal Mining

The team was confronted with the grim reality of illegal mining operations. The result was a successful operation culminating in the arrest of 19 suspected illegal miners and the confiscation of considerable amounts of mining equipment. The apprehended suspects, aged between 17 and 54, were from Atok. Seized equipment included 41 wheelbarrows, 14 generators, 13 jackhammers, and other items. Furthermore, four individuals were arrested on suspicion of possessing stolen precious minerals, highlighting the severe impact of such unlawful activities on the local economy.

The operation did not halt there. In Ga-Phasha, the tireless multi-disciplinary team managed to apprehend another 13 illegal miners.

These initiatives gained the attention and endorsement of local authorities. The Mayor of Fetakgomo/Tubatse Municipality, Councillor Eddy Maila, along with the Provincial CPF Chairperson, Mr. Frans Kgasago, praised the diligent work of the SAPS. They lauded the team’s unwavering efforts in combating crime, especially illegal mining, and for fostering positive relations with the community and relevant stakeholders.

The Uphill Battle Against Illegal Mining

At the front lines, the SANDF Joint Task Force Commander, Brigadier General MP Sereko, advocated for enhanced joint initiatives to tackle the unceasing issue of illegal mining. He guaranteed continuous resource allocation to aid the police in eliminating illegal mining from the province.

Addressing the problem of illegal mining, Lieutenant General Hadebe voiced her gratitude for the combined effort, particularly in the Sekhukhune district, where illegal mining is a prevalent issue. She stressed the importance of dismantling syndicates, apprehending kingpins, shutting down markets that support illegal mining, and safeguarding communities. “Our operations have been amplified, and I am confident that we are closing in on these criminals,” she declared.

Hadebe’s statement found support in the remarkable achievements recorded during the disruptive operations conducted throughout the province from August 15, 2023, to December 31, 2023. During this period, an impressive total of 220 suspects were arrested, and over R126 million worth of illegal mining equipment was confiscated.

The inspection tour was marked by active walkabouts and air patrols over the mining areas, in addition to community interaction at Tubatse Crossing mall. The local mayor and Provincial Commissioner addressed the multi-disciplinary forces off duty at Tubatse Crossing mall, encouraging them to persist in their concerted efforts in the war against crime.

The second phase of SAPS’s Annual Festive Season Inspection Roadshow mirrors a broader commitment to preserving the rule of law, safeguarding resources, and advocating legal activities. It stands as evidence of the determination of law enforcement agencies and the effectiveness of multi-disciplinary collaboration in curbing illegal mining. As we progress, such initiatives will continue to play a vital role in maintaining the prosperity and security of South Africa’s Limpopo province.

1. What is the Annual Festive Season Inspection Roadshow, and what is its purpose?

The Annual Festive Season Inspection Roadshow is a strategic plan initiated by the South African Police Service to eradicate illegal mining activities in Limpopo province. Its primary goal is to disrupt and eradicate illegal mining activities in the region and emphasize the dedication of law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order, preserving resources, and promoting legal economic activities.

2. Who is involved in the collaborative initiative against illegal mining in Limpopo province?

The collaborative initiative against illegal mining is headed by the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, and involves multiple stakeholders such as the South African National Defence Force, the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and others.

3. What were the achievements of the disruptive operations conducted from August 15, 2023, to December 31, 2023?

During the disruptive operations conducted from August 15, 2023, to December 31, 2023, 220 suspects were arrested, and over R126 million worth of illegal mining equipment was confiscated.

4. What were the outcomes of the operation in Atok and Ga-Phasha?

During the operation in Atok, 19 suspected illegal miners were arrested, and 41 wheelbarrows, 14 generators, 13 jackhammers, and other items were confiscated. In Ga-Phasha, another 13 illegal miners were apprehended.

5. Who praised the team’s efforts in combating illegal mining activities?

The Mayor of Fetakgomo/Tubatse Municipality, Councillor Eddy Maila, along with the Provincial CPF Chairperson, Mr. Frans Kgasago, praised the diligent work of the SAPS in combating crime, especially illegal mining, and fostering positive relations with the community and relevant stakeholders.

6. What is the importance of dismantling syndicates in the fight against illegal mining?

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe stressed the importance of dismantling syndicates, apprehending kingpins, shutting down markets that support illegal mining, and safeguarding communities. Dismantling syndicates is crucial in curbing illegal mining activities and ensuring the prosperity and security of Limpopo province.