Illegal mining equipment seized and police officer nabbed in separate incidents

SEKHUKHUNE – The Vala Umgodi Operation conducted on 15 June in Sekhukhune district yielded positive results following the recovery of illegal mining tools during a patrol at MJH Chrome Mine.

Colonel Masekela Magoro, Limpopo Provincial Police spokesperson, said the recovered tools included eight wheelbarrows, shovels, spades, a jackhammer case and steel hand hoe.

However, Magoro stated that no suspects were arrested during the incident. “SAPS remain committed to ensuring law and order in our communities and will continue to clamp down on illegal activities that threaten the safety, security and economic stability of the country,” Magoro highlighted.

Meanwhile, A 32 year-old police officer attached to SAPS Lydenburg in Mpumalanga province was arrested on 14 June on charges of deafiting the ends of justice, assault on police, crimen injuria and resisting arrest.

The police said the incident occurred in Mashamothane Village within the Tubatse policing precinct. Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, who also speaks for Limpopo SAPS, said the it is reported that police were busy tracing a firearm after two suspects accused of robbery were rescued from an attack by community members.

“One suspect was found in possession of a firearm in a shack after they were rescued. While the police were busy effecting arrest, the police officer who happens to be related to the suspect, started interfering with their duties, using vulgar words. The police managed to arrest the suspect and proceeded to the police station for detention. The officer followed them and upon arrival, he continued to insult the police officers on duty. They opened cases against him and he resisted arrest but was eventually detained,” explained Ledwaba.