Mining companies join SAPS in fight against illegal mining in Northern Cape – DFA

The multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team in the Northern Cape has received a significant boost with the support of mining companies in the Frances Baard and Namakwa districts.

THE MULTI-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team in the Northern Cape has received a significant boost with the support of mining companies in the Frances Baard and Namakwa districts.

Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said that several meetings were held with the security heads of mining companies in both districts. The companies have committed to joining Operation Vala Umgodi in its mission to eradicate illegal mining activities in the Province.

In the Frances Baard District, Ekapa Mining highlighted its collaboration with a local artisanal mining forum, Batho Pele. They also identified demarcated mining land and areas where suspected illegal mining activities are taking place.

Meanwhile, in the Namakwa District, two mining companies, Misvak and Alexcor Diamond Mining, have joined forces with the Operation Vala Umgodi team and accompanied them to identified mining sites.

The three mining companies have all reported being significantly impacted by illegal mining and have pledged their support to Operation Vala Umgodi in the two districts by sharing intelligence and information gathered during operations.

The Northern Cape provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, commended the mining community for strengthening their partnerships with law enforcement. She welcomed all efforts to combat illegal mining activities in the Province.