Police destroy a load of illegal mining equipment in  Tubatse

SEKHUKHUNE 

On weekly basis, local media houses report about illegal mining equipment that were seized by the Limpopo SAPS, mostly in Sekhukhune. 

 In a concerted effort to combat and decisively address illegal mining activities, the SAPS in Burgersfort has taken a significant step in dismantling tools used by illegal miners.

On  July 8, the SAPS in Burgersfort, under the strict supervision of the TAC-JOC team, SAPS 13 Exhibit Management, the Local Criminal Record Center (LCRC), and Provincial Pro-Active Policing and Frontline Management Services, officially disposed of confiscated and abandoned illegal mining equipment seized during the ongoing Vala Umgodi operations in the Burgersfort policing area.

“The equipment was officially destroyed at an identified local scrap metal yard in Steelpoort, ensuring transparency and accountability. A total of 50 generators, 40 jackhammers, 15 picks, 35 shovels and spades, and 30 wheelbarrows were crushed into pieces to prevent any possibility of re-entry into illegal mining activities,” said Limpopo SAPS spokesman  Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.

He said this decisive action underscores their  commitment to eradicating illegal mining and safeguarding  communities, environment, and legitimate businesses from the adverse effects of unlawful activities. 

“The SAPS remains dedicated to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure a safer and lawful environment for all residents.”