The Hawks were assisted by the Tactical Operations Management Section, National Intervention Unit, the Airwing Unit, Illegal Mining Task Team, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), and Tyte Security Services.

The Hawks was assisted by SAPS' Airwing Unit. Photo supplied

Hawks spokesperson Tinyiko Mathebula said six excavators, one interlink truck containing 36 tons of chrome, one low-bed truck, three dump trucks, and 50 tons of chrome in a pile were seized for further investigation. On the police's arrival at the scene, the suspects fled on foot and abandoned all operations. 

The Hawks said they effected another operation the same day at Skeerpoort farm in Rustenburg, following information received about suspects who were illegally mining gold. These suspects also fled on foot. 

No one was arrested during both sting operations. Mathebula said the Provincial Head of the Hawks, Patrick Mbotho, nevertheless commended the team's efforts to clamp down on illegal mining.  

One interlink truck contained 36 tons of chrome. Photo supplied

Information was received about suspects who were allegedly mining chrome without environmental authorisation from DMRE. The Hawks acted swiftly and conducted an operation to curb these illegal mining activities. 

“On arrival, the team pounced on the suspects who were operating excavators. The suspects fled on foot leaving behind excavators and an interlink truck loaded with chrome.

“At Skeerpoort a Firman FPG 4800 Generator, one Bosch jackhammer, three garden spades, two Bosch grinders, fourteen chisels, and one panga were seized. Suspected precious metal material found at the scene were seized and sent to the lab for testing," Mathebula added.

OFM News