Eleven suspects, who were arrested on Sunday by the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit and members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Boitekong, are expected to make their first appearance before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court today.
The Flying Squad, Bafokeng Public Order Policing and the Rustenburg Local Criminal Record Centre also formed part of the team that made the arrests. The suspects' ages range between 19 and 39.
The team was following up on information regarding illegal mining activities, which were allegedly taking place at a house in Boitekong.
"Upon arrival, the house was searched and bags containing platinum material were found. Illegal mining equipment including compressors, gas bottles, cutting torches, hammers, iron balls, cutting discs, a welding machine, a grinder and a generator were seized.
"The owner of the house was arrested and charged with illegal possession of platinum, while the other 10 suspects were arrested and charged for contravention of the Immigration Act," SAPS said in a statement. - SAnews.gov.za
