Thirteen arrested as police intensify illegal mining crackdown in Bapong

Thirteen illegal miners have been arrested in Bapong, North West, over the last two weeks as law enforcement intensifies its crackdown on illicit operations in the province.

The police confirmation comes as rescue efforts are expected to get underway for five illegal miners believed to be trapped underground. Authorities are working to bring the individuals back to the surface safely.

Heavy machinery has been seized and removed from the site.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated that work is ongoing to identify the kingpins involved in this operation.