HMR News Updates: POLOKWANE
A multi-disciplinary team comprising the SAPS Tactical Response Team, National Intervention Unit, Public Order Police, Organised Crime Investigation, K9 Unit, Border Police Team, SANDF, and the Department of Home Affairs has achieved a significant success in Operation Vala Umgodi.
Recovery of Stolen Chrome
On May 27, 2024, the team intercepted five tipper trucks and a Toyota Hilux double cab along the R555 road outside Burgersfort, loaded with suspected stolen chrome. Preliminary investigations indicate that the chrome was extracted from illegal mining sites. Five male drivers, aged between 36 and 66, were arrested for possession of suspected stolen precious minerals. A sixth suspect fled the scene on foot.
Arrests at Illegal Mining Sites
On May 26, 2024, two foreign nationals, aged 26 and 44, were arrested at Mulati village outside Tzaneen in Mopani District for illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Recovery of Illicit Cigarettes
In a separate incident, the Border Police Team recovered a large consignment of illicit cigarettes worth millions of rands at Musina in Vhembe District near the Beitbridge Port of Entry. The cigarettes were being transported in a white Toyota Quantum vehicle. The driver fled the scene on foot, evading arrest. Approximately 109 boxes of illicit cigarettes with an estimated street value of R2.2 million were seized.
Arrests for Contravention of Immigration Act
The Joint Operational Teams arrested 12 foreign nationals within the five districts, including the Beitbridge Port of Entry, for contravention of the Immigration Act. The suspects are expected to appear in various Magistrate's Courts in the coming week.
