Nine Mozambicans were nabbed at Mashobodo, on Saturday, for illegal mining activity.
Police said they acted on information received.
They recovered pendukas (mining implements) and some chemicals suspected to be used to refine gold-bearing material.
Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, said the arrests demonstrate unwavering commitment to fight illegal mining.
“As the SAPS, we continue to ensure the utilisation of all available resources in dealing with illegal mining. Similar Operations will continue to be carried out, not only in Mashobodo, but also in other areas, including Barberton, Sabie, Pilgrim’s Rest etc. We urge the public, not to harbour illegal miners whose activities have harmful repercussions for the environment and the livelihoods of residents, “said the General.
Jackie Macie, MEC of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, in Mpumalanga, welcomed the arrest of the nine.
“We welcome this development although a lot still needs to be done to wrestle closed mining shafts from zama-zamas who seem to be on the rise. We believe the arrest of the nine will lead police to more suspects,” said Macie.
Picture: SAPS newsroom