Lentswe, Stilfontein - The fight against illegal mining in the North West province is making progress with the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) securing a preservation order for approximately 39 058 metric tons of gold-bearing material (GBM) valued at an estimated R16 million. The order was granted by the North West High Court on June 13, in terms of Section 38 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121 of 1998 (POCA). The seized material is alleged to be the proceeds of unlawful activities. This action follows extensive investigations into illegal mining operations that reportedly took place between 2016 and 2020
According to Sivenathi Gunya from the NPA, certain suspects and entities are alleged to have transported GBM from a dormant mine to a processing plant located in Stilfontein during this period. There the material was refined without a valid refining license.
The accused individuals have been arrested in connection with these operations and are expected to make their first court appearance on July 2.
The NPA has welcomed the court’s decision, hailing it as a crucial step forward in efforts to combat illegal mining.
Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, commended the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved and praised the AFU for its unwavering commitment to stripping criminals of their ill-gotten gains.
She reiterated the NPA’s firm resolve to prosecute those involved in unlawful mining activities and to curb the pervasive scourge of illegal mining across the province.
