Lerato Mbhiza
THE South African Police Service’s (SAPS) illicit mining task team unit closed down an illegal coal mine operating in Carolina, Mpumalanga and seized equipment worth R60 million and coal worth R12 million.
During the operation a 53-year-old mine manager was arrested after failing to produce a mining permit and equipment including excavators, bulldozers and dump trucks were confiscated.
In the past twelve months, 748 coal yards across the country were visited to ensure compliance. A total of 63 unregulated coal yards were shut down because they were not authorised by law to operate by the Department of Minerals Resources and Energy (DMRE) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE).
Through high-density operations, 335 illegal miners have been arrested at various hotspots across the country since 8 May 2023.
The Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili said the illicit mining task team continues to register commendable progress.
“Many thanks to the SANDF, DFFE, DMRE, and Water Affairs Department who also had a role to play in the success of this takedown. Since the establishment of the NatJOINTS energy safety and security priority committee we have intensified efforts to prevent and combat incidents of illegal mining activities, we are also working closely with all stakeholders to close and rehabilitate abandoned mine shafts to put a stop to these illegal mining activities”, said Lt Gen Mosikili”.
A manhunt is currently underway for the owner of the mine.
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