Illicit Mining Kingpin Arrested in Limpopo During Coordinated Police Operation

During the operation, authorities seized a white and blue Scania horse and trailer truck loaded with chrome, a Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB), a maroon Toyota Yaris, and a white Ford Ranger.

A notorious figure in the illicit mining sector is set to appear in the Apel Magistrate’s Court following his arrest, along with two accomplices, in Atok, Limpopo. The South African Police Service (SAPS) reported the arrest on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, as part of a coordinated operation under Operation Vala Umgodi.

The operation, which included units from the SAPS, the South African National Defence Force, and the National Intervention Unit, swiftly responded to illegal mining activities in the Atok area along the R37 road within the Apel policing precinct.

According to a statement released by the police on Friday, the multidisciplinary team intercepted the illegal activities, resulting in the apprehension of three individuals aged between 31 and 45. Among those arrested was a Congolese national, believed to be the mastermind behind the illegal mining operations in the Atok region.

During the operation, authorities seized a white and blue Scania horse and trailer truck loaded with chrome, a Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB), a maroon Toyota Yaris, and a white Ford Ranger.

The SAPS emphasized the importance of such operations in curbing illicit mining activities, which pose significant economic and environmental threats. The apprehension of this alleged kingpin is seen as a substantial step towards dismantling illegal mining networks in the region.