Mpumalanga police arrest 9 Mozambican nationals for illegal mining - EWN

Police in Mpumalanga have arrested nine Mozambican nationals for illegal mining in Mashobodo as part of Operation Vala Umgodi.

Mining implements and chemicals believed to be used to refine gold were seized by police during the raid.

This follows a discovery of two bodies in the same area last week, believed to be linked to illegal mining activities in the province linked to an ongoing turf war between alleged rival groups of illegal miners.

The group face charges related to illegal mining activities and possession of gold-bearing material.

Police spokesperson Donald Mdhluli elaborated, “This is one of the many disruptive activities that are carried out by member to destabilise illegal mining activities. These suspects are expected to appear in court very soon. Police are working in collaboration with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain the status of the arrested suspects.”

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