Virginia - An illegal miner drowned in the Sand River in Virginia as he tried to escape arrest. Free State police spokesperson, Malebo Khosana said the deceased was among scores of illegal miners plying their trade on the banks of the river. They scattered when police approached to arrest them. Khosana said Lesotho national Teboho Mosha Maqwabika was seen gasping for air and disappeared under the water. Police divers found his body. Khosana said eleven illegal immigrants from Lesotho were arrested at the scene. They will remain in custody pending their deportation.

Sapa