The three are connected to three other suspects who were arrested earlier on Monday, in relation to illegal mining, dealing in gold and money laundering, among other offences.  All six appeared in the Stilfontein Magistrate's Court where the matter was rolled over to Wednesday.

The Hawks provincial spokesperson, Tlangelani Rikhotso, tells OFM News that the six were arrested following a covert operation by the Hawks that unveiled underworld dealings in Khuma. Rikhotso previously said the arrest and seizure of R760 000 followed a year-long investigation.

The six suspects are Abraham Chem Banda; Bernett Pogisho Seliane; Bulelani Kima Mbambo; Fati Mbambo; Sipiriti Sesing and Sam Maqaya.

On Monday, the members of the Hawks confiscated hundreds of thousands of rands, as well as a weapon and cars during an operation which led to the arrest of the initial three suspects - aged between 32 and 50.

In 2017, illegal miners in Khuma made headlines following a spree of shootings in the area, which had residents concerned and fearing for their lives.

"Seven houses were simultaneously stormed on Monday morning by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit, assisted by members of the Tactical Response Team, the North West Detectives, the Kenneth Kaunda District Illegal Mining team and the Local Criminal Record Centre," Rikhotso added.

During the operation, R760 000 cash was seized along with a firearm, two Mercedes Benz sedans, a Toyota double cab, Isuzu bakkie, mercury, and gold refining paraphernalia.

OFM News