Hawks promise to stop illegal mining
This follows the arrest of nine illegal miners, known as ‘zama zamas’, for illegally mining a 10-acre site in Randfontein.
Gauteng police arrested 46 suspects during a crackdown on illegal mining in Krugersdorp and Randfontein on 2 August 2022. Photo: @SAPoliceService/Twitter
JOHANNESBURG – The South African Police Service’s Major Crime Investigation Unit, the Hawks, has vowed to crack down on illegal mining wherever it rears its head.
This follows the arrest of nine illegal miners, known as ‘zama zamas’, for illegally mining a 10-acre site in Randfontein.
The suspects were allegedly operating an illegal mine when the Hawks arrested them.
The Organized Crime Unit discovered more than 200 tonnes of gold-bearing material worth around half a million rand.
“The group is expected to face charges of breaching the Precious Metals Act and devices such as generators and penduks have been seized pending further investigation.”
