
In a crackdown on illicit mining, Limpopo police have arrested 14 undocumented foreign nationals and three individuals involved in illegal sand mining. The arrests took place between 4 and 5 January 2025 in various districts, including Vhembe, Capricorn, and Sekhukhune.
The 14 suspects, aged 19 to 45, were apprehended for violating the Immigration Act, with four arrested in Thohoyandou and 10 in Westernburg. Additionally, three suspects were arrested in Apel for loading sand illegally.
These operations, conducted with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), targeted illegal mining sites involved in gold-bearing minerals, chrome, and sand extraction. Furthermore, seven individuals were fined for selling expired food in Tynmine, Waterberg District.
The arrested suspects will appear before the respective Magistrate’s Courts shortly