Hawks uncover a gold smuggling operation in Mpumalanga, arresting 13 suspects and seizing equipment and cash.
Image: X/SA Police Services
In a significant blow to gold smugglers, the Hawks in Mpumalanga have concluded a lengthy investigation, culminating in a successful takedown operation on Tuesday, March 12.
The operation targeted three individuals suspected of smuggling gold within the province.
"The Hawks in Mpumalanga has concluded a project aimed at addressing the smuggling of gold within the province. During a lengthy investigation three targets were identified," said warrant officer Thandi Tshabalala.
A multi-disciplinary team comprising various units, including the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Serious Commercial Crime Investigation, and the Department of Home Affairs, conducted searches at nine premises linked to the suspects.
The searches yielded a significant haul, including illegal mining equipment, documents, laptops, cellphones, and cash amounting to R26,800.
Tshabalala said that, in the process, 11 undocumented foreign nationals, aged between 28 and 39, were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.
"Two of the targeted suspects, aged 33 and 41, were already in custody, having been arrested on March 7 and 8, 2025. They will face charges of dealing in precious metals and money laundering, while the third accused is still at large."
All the accused are scheduled to appear before the Barberton Magistrate's Court on Thursday, March 13.
This operation is part of the ongoing efforts to combat illicit mining activities in South Africa. In a related story, the SAPS reported that 275 suspects were arrested during last week's nationwide Vala Umgodi operations, which targeted illicit mining activities across the country.
In Mpumalanga, three suspects were arrested in December 2024 for alleged illegal mining activities following an intelligence-led operation in Ermelo.
The Hawks' operation in Mpumalanga demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement agencies to combating organized crime and illicit activities in South Africa.
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