A joint operation by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, De Aar Public Order Policing unit, and the Home Affairs Immigration office has led to the arrest of 26 illegal miners in Niekerkshoop. The suspects were allegedly caught after authorities received information about illegal mining activities taking place at Kromaar farm/mine.

 

According to Hawks spokesperson in the Northern Cape Lieutenant-Colonel Tebogo Thebe, preliminary investigations revealed that only nine individuals were permitted to mine at the property. However, none of the permit holders were authorized to transfer, assign, or sublet the mining rights to anyone else.

 

He says the suspects made their first court appearance before the Prieska Magistrate's Court on November 22, facing charges of illegal mining of tiger's eye, a semi-precious stone. The list of suspects includes 26 individuals from various backgrounds, including a Nigerian national.

 

Thebe says the matter was postponed until today, 25 November 2024. 

Journalist: Murial Meintjies
Email: intern2@radioriverside.co.za