EMPD arrests 3 suspected illegal miners

Three suspected illegal miners have been arrested by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).

On Thursday, officers followed up on a tip-off from community members about activities taking place in the Etwatwa area.

The officers inspected the identified property and nabbed the three.

EMPD said community members around Etwatwa suspected suspicious activities, like continuous digging, taking place at a particular residence when they called for intervention.

When officers pounced on the suspects, they were found with mining equipment, including gas cylinders, shovels, a cutting torch, and steel balls.

EMPD spokesperson Millicent Kekana said this illegal mining poses a potential threat to the environment.

“All three suspects were arrested and detained at the Etwatwa police station. They are facing charges of illegal mining and are expected to appear before the Daveyton Magistrates Court soon.”

Kekana added that the EMPD also commends community members for being alert and reporting illegal activities.