69-Year-Old Arrested in Major Gauteng Operation Against Illegal Mining

Gauteng police have arrested 69-year-old Rex Solomon Mlambo as part of an ongoing operation targeting illegal mining and dealings in precious metals.

Mlambo was arrested on March 21 during a coordinated effort by the Johannesburg-based Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team (SOCI), the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), and the SAPS Benoni K9 unit.

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The operation led to the arrest and  confiscation of gold nuggets, cash worth over R730,000, as well as two money-counting machines and rubber bands.

High-Profile Properties Raided In Coordinated Operation

The planned operation targeted several high-profile properties, including Beaulieu Estate, Kyalami Terrace Estate, and Carlswald Estate.

The authorities executed search warrants at these locations, uncovering evidence of illegal dealings in gold and cash.

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The haul includes gold nuggets, which, combined with the seized cash, is valued at over R730,000.

Mlambo was charged after he was arrested and appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on March 24.

After paying a R10,000 bail, his case was postponed to May 8.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Crackdown On Illegal Mining Networks

Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, the provincial head of the Hawks in Gauteng, restated the commitment and seriousness with which law enforcement is addressing illegal mining and the exploitation of South Africa’s natural resources.

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Kadwa said, “No one is above the law, not even in the wealthiest suburbs.

“The Hawks remain steadfast in their mission to dismantle criminal networks and protect the nation’s assets.”

According to him, This operation is part of a broader crackdown on illegal activities surrounding precious metals and mining in the province.

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