In an effort to combat illicit mining in the province, the Free State police have arrested ten suspects for possession of gold-bearing material.
According to Lt.Col. Thabo Covane, SAPS officers patrol in areas such as FS1 bushes and farms, where ventilation shafts are situated.
“During the operation, the team seized gold-bearing material weighing 340.28 kilograms. Gold-processing equipment such as gwala, shovels (4), garden spades (5), pick axes (3), steel plates (7) and self-made strainer (6) were also seized. Case dockets of possession of suspected gold-bearing material, gold-processing equipment, trespassing on mine areas, and contravention of the Immigration Act were opened at Welkom, Virginia and Theunissen Police Stations,” he said.
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
Compiled by Clement Matroos
