SAPS focusing efforts to track down alleged Stilfontein kingpin

JOHANNESBURG - The SA Police Service (SAPS) says it is focused on tracking down the alleged kingpin behind illegal mining in Stilfontein.

But the SAPS is also cautioning people not to make false claims about James Neo Tshwaeli's whereabouts after the man also known as "Tiger" had escaped custody earlier this month.

Four police officers suspected of assisting Tiger's escape are out on bail after their first appearance before the Stilfontein Magistrates Court on Friday.

• WATCH: Underworld of Stilfontein: Who controls the abandoned mine?

National Police Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says people should allow them to investigate the matter and not jump to conclusions.

“Our focus now is where is Tiger, wherever he was taken to, he must be found. With our own arrested, we are hopeful we will get to the truth of what really happened. General Fannie Masemola is thus far satisfied with how investigations are unfolding. This matter is before court and no further comment will be provided at this stage.”