Security operatives in Polokwane, Limpopo are cracking down on illegal mining activities under Operation Vala Umgodi.
At least 38 illegal immigrants were apprehended in Sekhukhune and Vhembe Districts, and at Beitbridge Port of Entry. They also intercepted a homemade wooden ferry suspected to be used for smuggling people and counterfeit goods across the Limpopo River.
Several pieces of equipment were seized, and more chrome and platinum were found in Sekhukhune. The task team, with SAPS and SANDF, is targeting illegal miners.
Among the equipment seized are the jackhammers and chisels with which they dismantle mining networks in Limpopo.
Last week, two suspecst were arrested for illegal mining at Maroga village outside Burgersfort.