Arrested illegal miners fail in their attempt to bribe officers
BURGERSFORT
Limpopo SAPS remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate corruption and illegal mining activities. Four suspects were apprehended during the disruptive Operation Vala Umgodi in Sekhukhune on July 6. A specialised team comprising members from Tactical Response Team , National Intervention Unit, Crime Intelligence co-ordinators, and South Africa National Defence Force, conducted operations at various illegal mining sites, culminating in a significant raid at the Atok hotspot.The suspects were arrested for offenses, including illegal mining, immigration violations, possession of suspected stolen raw minerals, and bribery.
The operation uncovered stockpiles in Atok and Mooihoek villages.
“During the operation, one of the arrested suspects attempted to bribe the team with a substantial sum of money in exchange for his release. In a display of unwavering professionalism, the police officers swiftly apprehended the suspect and seized the bribe, as evidence,” said Limpopo SAPS spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.
Ledwaba said the arrested suspects are currently detained at Apel SAPS and are set to appear before the Sekhukhune Magistrate Court soon.
Limpopo SAPS commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said that the arrest of the individual attempting to corrupt the police officers sends a resounding message to potential suspects that there is no place for corruption within the SAPS ranks.
