The South African Police Service’s efforts to combat illegal mining operations have made significant progress with the recent closure of an illegal coal mine in Carolina, Mpumalanga.
In a targeted operation on September 19, 2023, police seized a staggering R60 million worth of mining equipment, including excavators, bull dozers, and dump trucks.
The operation was carried out by the SAPS illicit mining task team, which has been deployed across the country to prevent and combat illegal mining activities. In addition to the equipment, the police also confiscated R12 million worth of coal that had been illegally mined.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, spokesperson for the police, revealed that a 53-year-old mine manager was arrested during the raid for failing to produce a valid mining permit. Further investigation revealed that the mine was operating without a license, making it an illegal operation.
Mathe also shared that in the past year alone, the police have visited 748 coal yards throughout the country to ensure compliance. Out of these, 63 unregulated coal yards were shut down as they were operating without proper authorization from the Department of Minerals Resources and Energy (DMRE) and Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).
The SAPS illicit mining task team has been highly successful in apprehending illegal miners. Since May 8, 2023, a total of 335 individuals involved in illegal mining activities have been arrested in various hotspots across the country.
Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, commended the task team for their ongoing efforts. He expressed gratitude to the SANDF, DFFE, DMRE, and Water Affairs Department for their collaboration in this successful operation. The establishment of the NatJOINTS energy safety and security priority committee has facilitated closer cooperation among stakeholders in preventing and combating illegal mining.
A search is currently underway for the owner of the closed mine, as authorities seek to hold them accountable for their illegal activities.
centralnewsza
Central News Issue 023: Download the latest weekly edition of Central News Print and Digital Newspaper. Top Stories : “Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi wins defamation case over rape allegations”
Download Here:
Read our latest publication on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues/
________________________
Central News offers sponsored articles, Print Media, Social Media Marketing, Door To Door Pamphlet Distribution, display branding partnerships, podcast services, newsletters, live streaming , Radio & Television Content Development and paid interviews.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #fscentralnews #nwcentralnews #gautengcentralnews
CENTRAL NEWS