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A miner underground.
A task team established last year to deal with illegal mining, Operation Vala uMgodi, has identified 12 non-operational mines in the Greater Giyani and Malamulele areas as hotspots for illegal mining activities.
The mines ceased their gold mining operations over 30 years ago during the Gazankulu homeland administration. SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba says they are investigating the possibility of a syndicate linked to the illegal operations between these mines and the mines in the Thohoyandou and Sekhukhune areas.
Mashaba says the task team has recorded successes against illegal mining.
“Illegal mining poses a serious negative impact towards the economy and the environment. Further more, Operation Vala uMgodi’s effectiveness in dismantling illicit operations and preventing further environmental degradation. We are sending a clear message that unlawful activities will not be tolerated with the province. The members of SAPS and various law enforcement agencies will continue to clamp down and disrupt crime syndicate involved in illegal mining activities in all districts within Limpopo.”
Spotlight on illegal mining in SA:
