In a significant blow to illegal mining syndicates, Vala Umgodi detectives arrested two mine employees on Monday, 21 July 2025, for allegedly facilitating unauthorized mining activities near Hennenman, Free State.
The suspects — a dump truck driver and a Human Resources Manager — are accused of using their work vehicles to transport illegal miners onto restricted mine property. This latest development comes after a wider investigation was launched earlier this month, triggered by the interception of illegal miners attempting to access underground tunnels.
Both employees now face serious charges, including conspiracy to commit illegal mining and endangering safety on the mines. Their arrest highlights the dangerous role insiders may play in enabling illicit operations that threaten not only the economy but also the lives of those involved.
The accused are scheduled to appear in the Welkom Magistrate’s Court on 23 July 2025. This case forms part of an ongoing crackdown by authorities, which has resulted in 69 arrests in just one week, including 55 undocumented foreign nationals suspected of involvement in illegal mining.
Law enforcement officials warn that the fight against illegal mining will continue relentlessly, targeting all players involved — from foot soldiers to insiders.
