Almost 700 zama zamas arrested in Limpopo this festive season - police

JOHANNESBURG - Almost 700 zama zamas have been arrested in Limpopo this festive season.  

Police said that from 1 December until 1 January, 669 suspects were apprehended for various offences, including illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act.  

“Seven firearms were seized, nine vehicles were also seized, thirty-eight live ammunitions, three magazines, and there were nine deportations," South African Police (SAPS) provincial spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng said. 

"Serious crimes include mining illegally and also possession of unlicensed firearms. This we regard as a breakthrough.”  

Thakeng has appealed to communities to report any illegal mining activity in their area to the police.  

“We are actually appealing, please, illegal mining is a crime. Report them to 08 600 10111.”