Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie has welcomed the arrest of about 478 illegal miners by police on Friday during Operation Vala Umgodi at a mine in Barberton. 

He said the mass arrest augurs well for the government’s endeavours to fight and prevent crime. The arrested miners are allegedly undocumented foreign nationals.

Macie believes the illegal movement of people into the country negatively impacts the safety and security of communities and the resolution of crime cases involving undocumented foreign nationals.

This, according to the MEC, contributes to increasing numbers of undetected crime cases.

He further acknowledged the devastating impact of illegal mining activities and long-term effects on the environment. 

“We welcome the efforts by the police and all role players involved in Friday’s operation. However, we also want the police to apprehend those who are behind illegal mining. Communities should refrain from accommodating zama-zamas but rather report them to the police, ” he said.

Macie also called on mining companies to enhance security, and also work closely with the police. 

The Mpumalanga department of community safety, security and liaison said arrested men may face charges for contravening the Immigration Act, trespassing, and other offences related to illegal mining..

The arrested men are expected to appear in court soon.

In March, IOL reported that at least 33 illegal immigrants between the ages of 18 and 45 suspected to be dealing in illegal mining were arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga.

Amongst the suspects, five were women while 28 were men.

At the time, provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli said during the arrest, police discovered that the suspects were in possession of mining equipment which was a sign that they were allegedly involved in illegal mining activities.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

IOL News  

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