Lentswe, Orkney - More than 20 illegal miners were arrested after they surrendered themselves to police when they resurfaced from underground.
The Zama-zamas voluntarily exited the shaft in Lourenspark on Saturday January 27. Brig Sabatha Mokgwabone, police spokesperson, said 23 men exited the shaft. “Two of the illegal miners were found with gold bearing material, and will also face charges to that affect.’’3 The miners were charged with trespassing and illegal mining. They were expected to appear in the Orkney Magistrates Court this week.
According to Brig Mokgwabone they are likely to face charges relating to contravention of Immigration Act of 2002, subject to processing by immigration officials.
Lentswe was told that more illegal miners have resurfaced since the weekend because their food stock ran out. Hundreds more are still underground waiting to surrender. This was not confirmed by SAPS.
