Rustenburg Illegal Mining
By Mpho Moloi
South African authorities have arrested 10 individuals linked to an illegal mining scheme in Rustenburg, which shockingly used a bedroom as an entry point to a nearby mine shaft. The arrests were made following a well-coordinated raid by the Tlhabane Visible Policing Unit, Royal Bafokeng Tactical Team, and Rustenburg Public Safety. Among those apprehended are a 65-year-old homeowner and his 31-year-old accomplice, both expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court today, Monday, 9 September 2024.
A Shocking Discovery
The police operation took place in the early hours of Thursday, 5 September 2024, at the Nkandla informal settlement near the Khuseleka 1 mine, where the elderly homeowner was found to have allegedly allowed a group of illegal miners, often referred to as “zama zamas,” to use his bedroom as an entry point to the mine. This discovery highlights the resourcefulness and dangers of illegal mining operations in South Africa, which often involve tampering with critical infrastructure and theft of mine resources.
Reports suggest that when police arrived at the scene, an unconfirmed number of miners fled into a man-made hole located in one of the bedrooms of the house. This hole led directly to a nearby mine shaft operated by Sibanye Stillwater. However, the homeowner and one other individual were arrested on the spot. With the assistance of the mine’s security team, further evidence, including stolen mine property and other equipment, was discovered inside the house.
Expanded Investigation and Further Arrests
Following the initial arrests, the police launched an expanded investigation, which resulted in the arrest of eight more suspects over the weekend of 6–7 September 2024. These suspects, aged between 16 and 31, were taken into custody for their involvement in the illegal mining operation and are also expected to face charges of tampering with essential infrastructure and possession of stolen goods.
Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West, confirmed the arrests and commended the police teams involved for their successful efforts. She noted that the investigation into the operation is still ongoing, with more suspects being sought.
Addressing the Ongoing Illegal Mining Crisis
Illegal mining continues to be a significant issue in South Africa, particularly in mining towns like Rustenburg. These operations, often run by criminal syndicates, pose a severe risk to both infrastructure and the safety of individuals living near these mining sites. The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, welcomed the recent arrests and praised the security teams for their “concerted efforts in addressing illegal mining activities.”
The Commissioner emphasized that this successful raid demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement to combat illegal mining and its associated crimes. The discovery of a tunnel leading directly to the Khuseleka 1 mine highlights the scale of these operations, with the infrastructure often being compromised to enable access to valuable resources underground.
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