This concerted effort led to multiple arrests and the confiscation of equipment and contraband in recent days.

On Wednesday (8/1), a 48-year-old was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit illicit mining. The arrest followed the interception of an Iveco midibus carrying prepackaged food parcels intended to be dropped down a ventilation shaft at the Beatrix Mine.

Canned/tinned food and instant porridge preferred by underground illegal miners. Photo supplied

Police spokesperson Thabo Covane said the confiscated items included canned goods, fizzy drinks, and instant porridge. These were allegedly meant to sustain illegal miners operating underground.

Suspect (22) found busy at an open cast in Eland old mine grounds. Photo supplied

A 22-year-old was arrested on the Eland old mine grounds with 24.18 kg of gold-bearing material, a pickaxe, and a shovel, while a 27-year-old was found in possession of processing gold-bearing material on a makeshift slope table at Western Holdings 05 Mine.

Authorities confiscated 58.18 kg of gold-bearing material, along with mining tools.

In Thabong, a man (46) was apprehended at G-Hostel near Constantia Road for illegal mining-related activities. Police seized 7.06 kg of gold-bearing material, an oxygen cylinder, gas regulators, pipes, pliers, and a cup with gold residue in the vicinity. They arrested 32 men for various offences, including illegal mining dealings, trespassing on mine areas, and immigration violations.

Covane confirmed the confiscated contraband and tools were booked into the evidence management system, while multiple charges were laid at police stations in Theunissen, Welkom, and Thabong, including possession of suspected gold-bearing material and processing equipment, trespassing, and contravention of the Immigration Act.

Gold processing equipment seized by Operation Vala uMgodi operators at G-Hostel, Thabong near Welkom. Photo supplied

Free State police reiterated their commitment to dismantling illegal mining networks that threaten the safety of communities and legitimate mining operations.

Covane said all suspects will appear before the courts soon.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg