The Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola addressed a combined South African Police Service (SAPS) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF) parade to lead the illicit mining operations dubbed “vala imigodi” meaning , ‘close open mines’, in Kimberley on Monday, 18 December 2023.
The deployment of forces will commence over a three month period to address illicit mining operations with two Venue Operating Centres (VOC) established in Kimberley at the Frances Baard District and Namakwa District.
The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Luntu Ngubelanga stated that these operations will target illegal miners, undocumented persons, stop and search persons and vehicles looking for illegal mining materials, and ensure safety on unused mine premises.
Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola stressed the importance of the safety of our communities and the members performing these duties, she requested members and all in involved in these activities, to be vigilant, professional and act within the ambit of the law when executing their duties.
She emphasised reinforced police community relations in fighting crime and encouraged members of the public to report any criminality to the police.