By Kopano Dibakwane
While the police in Mpumalanga are grappling with instances of persistent illegal mining activities throughout the province, a 55-year-old man from Hlamalani Trust in the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality is allegedly renting guns to the illegal miners(zama-zamas).p
The man was reportedly apprehended on Friday 7 March 2025 after police received a tip-off about his alleged business.
Mpumalanga spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, said the police members attached to Operation Vala Umgodi reacted promptly to the tip-off and the suspect was spotted by police, as per the description provided.
“ A search at the residential house of the man was then conducted and it was during that time when three firearms with ammunition were found(one 9mm PX pistol). Serial numbers of two of the firearms were filed off. The suspect was charged for possession of unlicensed firearm with ammunition . More charges could be added against him as the investigation continues,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The suspect appeared before the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court.
