By Kopano Dibakwane
One suspect was reportedly killed during a shootout with security officers while three other suspects were apprehend at a mine in Bethal on Sunday 23 February 2025.
Speaking for the police in Mpumalanga, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane said a group of six armed men reportedly gained entry at the underground gate of the mine forcefully, breaking the lock and damaging the shaft. According to Lt-Col Ndubane, two other suspects were injured, one shot in the leg.
“ Upon entering the shaft, the guards were reportedly welcomed by a hail of bullets from the suspects. Upon arrival of the police at the scene, the apprehended suspects were charged for tampering with infrastructure to the estimated value of R1.2 million.
“ Amongst the three suspects, one is a Lesotho National and the investigators are working collaboratively with officials from the Department of Home Affairs on this matter,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
She further more said that police cannot rule out the possibility of more charges being added against the suspects, as investigation continues.
“ The circumstances surrounding this incident is still under investigation by the police. The three suspects will appear before the Bethal Magistrate’s Court soon,” Lt-Col Ndubane concluded.
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