In a swift operation by Operation Vala Umgodi in the Free State, multiple suspects have been arrested for illegal possession of firearms and involvement in illicit mining activities across Thabong and Welkom.
Illegal Firearms Recovered
Acting on a tip-off, law enforcement intercepted two suspects on Dan Lekgwabane Street in Orange Groove Location, Thabong. A search uncovered a Black 7.65mm pistol with a filed-off serial number and a Silver blank gun. The suspects, aged 21 and 23, were arrested and face charges of possession of unlicensed firearms. A case docket has been opened at Thabong Police Station.
Illegal Mining Busts
During patrols in hotspot areas, further arrests were made for illegal mining activities:
Merriespruit Slam Dam
A 55-year-old male was apprehended while processing 50.67 kilograms of gold-bearing material.Stone and Allied
Two suspects, aged 31 and 35, were found engaged in mining activities, with 67.50 kilograms of gold-bearing material and tools such as shovels, pickaxes, basins, and buckets seized.Masakeng - Ndaki Way
A 25-year-old suspect was arrested with 11.10 kilograms of gold-bearing material and mining tools, including a burner pan, stumper, and steel bowl.Allenridge Rock Dump
Two additional suspects, aged 33 and 35, were caught processing 30.86 kilograms of gold-bearing material during a revisit to the site.
Seized Items
In total, authorities confiscated nearly 160 kilograms of suspected gold-bearing material, alongside tools used in mining operations.
Legal Proceedings
All suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges related to the possession of unlicensed firearms and illicit mining. Cases have been opened at the relevant police stations, including Thabong, Virginia, and Allenridge.
Community Appeal
Police have urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to illegal mining or firearms to Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the nearest police station.
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