Multiple suspects arrested for illegal mining activities in Tlhatlaganyane village and Rustenburg

The integrated “Vala Umgodi” operations led to the arrest of four suspects for different crimes between Saturday, 06 and Monday, 08 July 2024, in Tlhatlaganyane village and Rustenburg.

Two of the four suspects were nabbed in Tlhatlaganyane for possession gold bearing material. Biology Maphorisa (33) and Ishmael Dube (20) who are both Zimbabwean foreign nationals, appeared in the Mogwase Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 09 July 2024. They were remanded in custody until Tuesday, 16 July 2024, for bail application.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is investigating.

In another arrest, Galenkwane Ralenkwane (35) was found guilty for contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002, on appearance in the Mogwase Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 09 July 2024. Ralenkwane who is from Lesotho, was sentenced to 30 days imprisonment or R1 500.00 fine.

In Rustenburg, Chistopher Lentswe (41) appeared in the local court for unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition following his arrest on Sunday, 07 July 2024. He will remain in custody until Tuesday, 16 July 2024, for bail application. Lentswe was further linked with a case of robbery committed in Rustenburg in May this year.
During the operations, the team seized illegal mining equipment such as motors, generators, spades and extension cords.

The Provincial Police Commissioner in North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, welcomed the arrests and thanked the members for their continued efforts in the fight against illicit activities.