R5,1 million illegal mining 
bust

North West – ‘Stabilisation Operations’, a cleanup operation in the North West province, continue to bring more suspects to book after various police units arrested five suspects in Klerksdorp on Wednesday 20 November for illegal mining activities. 

During this operation, three tonnes of copper, two firearms, ammunition, furniture, groceries, mining equipment and tools were confiscated. 

The arrest came seven days after illegal miners shot at the police and fled into one of the abondoned mine shafts near Hartbeesfontein on Thursday, 15 November. At the time of the incident, the police were conducting a multi-disciplinary operation to address illegal mining.

One of the police officers sustained serious injuries and the second only minor injuries. 
During the operation, the total amount of goods including gold dust recovered is estimated at about R5,1 million. 

The North West provincial commissioner, lieutenant general Baile Motswenyane commended the police and other role players for their cooperation and commitment that led to the successes.