On 09 January 2024 at approximately 10:00 members from the Vala Umgodi team together with a private security company conducted an operation in the Namaqua district.
The team searched an area where it is alleged that illicit mining is occurring. Four men were found in mining holes and arrested. Two undocumented Zimbabwe nationals aged 17 and 39, as well as two South African citizens aged 29 and 30 were arrested on a charge of illicit mining.
Mining equipment to the approximate value of R2600, believed to be used in the commission of illicit mining, was seized. Diamond carrying gravel was also seized.
The suspects will appear in court soon.
The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola commended the members for their continued efforts to eradicate illicit mining in the province.