As part of combating illegal mining and other crimes, police in Klerksdorp, North West, have arrested a 21-year-old-Zimbabwean who was found in possession of explosives, suspected to be used in illegal mining activities and cash-in-transit.
According to the police, the suspect was arrested during an intelligence led operation in Klerksdorp, after they received information about the sale of explosives.
“The suspect, who tried to flee after becoming aware of the police, was arrested in the bushes near a shopping mall by members of the National Intervention Unit (NIU).
Inside his vehicle, police found a variety of explosives, including capped fuses, 30 blasting cartridges and 50m of detonating cord.
Initial investigations indicated that the explosives are used to commit cash in transit heists, explode Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) as well as utilisation in illegal mining activities,” said police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh.
The suspect will appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on 10 March, on charges of unlawful possession of explosives.
The arrest follows the recent police Vala Umgodi Operation in the nearby Stilfontein, which led to arrest of more than a thousand illegal miners who were found at an abandoned shaft 11 in the area.
Nearly 100 bodies were retrieved at the shaft.
Meanwhile, the Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, has applauded members involved in the multi-disciplinary operation for their diligence that resulted in bringing the suspect to book.
