Police say illegal mining won’t be tolerated after Orkney arrests

Pressure is mounting on illegal miners in Orkney, North West, as the South African Police Service (SAPS) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF)-led Vala Umgodi task teams intensify their crackdown.

Over the weekend, hundreds of illegal miners, facing food and water shortages underground, were forced to resurface due to starvation and dehydration.

The operation is part of a wider initiative aimed at eradicating illegal mining, an industry responsible for economic losses and hazardous working conditions.

illegal mining

Operation Vala Umgodi: A Coordinated Effort

The Vala Umgodi task team has been working relentlessly in Orkney to curb illegal mining activity. SAPS and SANDF forces have been blocking supply routes to prevent food, water, and essential supplies from reaching miners underground.

This approach has proven effective as miners, unable to survive the harsh conditions, have been compelled to surface. By midday on Saturday, an additional 340 miners had emerged, bringing the total number of those detained over the weekend to 565.

This operation signifies an uncompromising stance from the South African authorities toward illegal mining.

Rising Numbers: Hundreds Surface Amid Crippling Conditions

The harsh conditions underground, including lack of food, dehydration, and unsanitary environments, have left miners with few options but to surrender. On Saturday, 225 miners were initially arrested as they resurfaced, and an additional 340 were detained later, as confirmed by SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe.

“From last night, an additional 340 illegal miners have resurfaced and have been placed under arrest. As of 12:00 (midday) on Sunday, 03 November 2024, at least 565 illegal miners have resurfaced,” she reported.

225 illegal miners arrested

This increase in detainees reflects the intensity and scale of the crackdown. Those detained include South Africans as well as Mozambican and Basotho nationals, with law enforcement expecting even more individuals to emerge as the operation continues.

A Wider Operation with Significant Results

Since its inception in December, Operation Vala Umgodi has expanded across seven provinces in South Africa. During this time, it has made over 13,000 arrests and seized substantial amounts of cash and contraband.

According to the SAPS, assets confiscated include R5 million in cash and uncut diamonds worth R32 million, signaling the operation’s success in targeting illegal profits linked to mining.

Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya praised the task forces for their dedication, stating, “Operation Vala Umgodi won’t back down until illegal mining is stamped out entirely.”

This statement demonstrates the government’s commitment to restoring lawful activity and stabilizing affected regions. The operation’s multi-faceted approach, including direct arrests, asset seizure, and supply route blockages, underlines its comprehensive strategy to dismantle illegal mining networks.

The Human Cost and Security Risks of Illegal Mining

The rise of illegal mining has serious social and economic repercussions in South Africa. The uncontrolled extraction of minerals not only undermines legitimate mining enterprises but also poses severe environmental and safety risks.

Many illegal miners operate under hazardous conditions with limited access to safety equipment or proper ventilation.

Additionally, the presence of criminal elements and violence in mining areas endangers surrounding communities, often resulting in crime spills, gang activity, and community unrest.

Illegal mining also exacerbates financial losses for South Africa, as these unregulated activities contribute to significant tax revenue shortfalls. By cracking down on these operations, the government hopes to reclaim control over mineral resources and prevent the further degradation of mining regions.

Calls for Community and Regional Collaboration

The SAPS and SANDF are encouraging greater community involvement and regional collaboration in combating illegal mining. To address the roots of illegal mining, local leaders, law enforcement, and community members are called upon to support the mission of Operation Vala Umgodi.

Government officials also plan to work closely with neighboring countries like Mozambique and Lesotho, where many of the illegal miners originate, to strengthen cross-border monitoring and collaboration.

Challenges Ahead and Future Outlook

While Operation Vala Umgodi has achieved significant progress, there are ongoing challenges in fully dismantling illegal mining networks.

These networks are deeply entrenched and often backed by influential entities, making it difficult to eradicate them completely. The crackdown may face logistical challenges as it expands, particularly in remote areas where illegal miners are hidden in extensive underground networks.

Nevertheless, with continued efforts, South African authorities remain hopeful that the cumulative impact of arrests, confiscations, and strengthened security will deter future illegal mining attempts.

Lieutenant-General Sibiya has reinforced the SAPS’s commitment to “restore the rule of law” and uphold safety and justice in mining areas across South Africa.

Conclusion

The crackdown in Orkney signifies a pivotal moment in South Africa’s fight against illegal mining. The Vala Umgodi task force’s approach has already shown substantial results, and with continued dedication, authorities are optimistic about dismantling illegal mining networks that have long plagued the country’s economy and security.

However, achieving long-term success will require sustained collaboration between communities, law enforcement, and neighboring countries.

With each arrest and asset seizure, South Africa moves closer to stabilizing its mining industry and securing its mineral wealth for future generations.

In other news – Somizi channels Shebeshxt for Halloween – Photos stun Mzansi

Media personality Somizi Mhlongo took Halloween by storm this year, impressing fans with a show-stopping costume inspired by popular musician Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke, known as Shebeshxt.

Somizi channels Shebeshxt for Halloween

Known for his unique fashion sense and bold personality, Somizi captivated audiences with a costume that paid homage to Shebeshxt’s iconic look, complete with body tattoos and trademark style. Read More

The post Police say illegal mining won’t be tolerated after Orkney arrests appeared first on News365.co.za.

  • 6