Four undocumented Mozambican nationals, aged between 17 and 39, were arrested in Sabie, on Monday, for illegal mining.
In a statement, the police (SAPS), said, a large group of people were spotted on the illegal mining site. But most of the suspects ran, leaving the four, who were later arrested.
Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, the Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General, strongly condemned the illegal mining activities happening in the Mpumalanga province.
“Apart from illegal extracting of precious metals, we are really concerned about the safety of those who are involved in these unsafe sites and the infighting amongst different groups that at times lead to the loss of lives.”
The 4 were expected to appear before Sabie Magistrate’s Court, on Tuesday, for contravening the Immigration Act of South Africa and allegedly conducting illegal mining activities.
Some illegal mining equipment and gold bearing materials were also seized during the operation.