About 12 suspects, were arrested at the Slaaihoek area near Waterval Boven, for illegal mining, on Tuesday.
They are between the ages of 18 and 42.
The police (SAPS) in Mpumalanga said various exhibits were seized during the operation, including generators, gas cylinders, pendukas, and other equipment, commonly used in illicit mining activities.
Suspects face charges of the Contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa, possession of suspected gold-bearing material (GBM), possession of gold-bearing equipment (GBE), as well as Contravention of the Liquor Act for selling liquor without a licence.
The suspects are expected to appear at the Waterval Boven Periodical Court and Graskop Magistrate’s Court soon.
Picture: SAPS newsroom