Elderly Man and Alleged Accomplices Set to Appear in Rustenburg Court for Illegal Mining After Using Bedroom as Secret Entry to Sibanye Stillwater Shaft

An elderly man from Rustenburg, along with his alleged accomplices, is set to face the Rustenburg Magistrates Court on Monday, September 9, 2024.

They are charged with illegal mining after the man reportedly permitted illegal miners to use his bedroom as a secret entry point to the Sibanye Stillwater mine shaft.

Arrest Details

The arrest occurred on the morning of September 5, 2024, thanks to the coordinated efforts of Tlhabane Visible Policing, the Royal Bafokeng Tactical Team, and Rustenburg Public Safety.

The operation took place at the Nkandla informal settlement near the Sibanye Stillwater Khuseleka 1 mine.

Charges and Allegations

According to Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani from the South African Police Service (SAPS) in North West, the authorities acted on a tip-off leading to the arrest of two suspects, aged 65 and 31.

They face charges of illegal mining, tampering with and damaging essential infrastructure, and possession of suspected stolen goods.

It’s alleged that the 65-year-old homeowner, who lives with his family, allowed a group of illegal miners to use a bedroom in his home as a makeshift entry to the nearby Khuseleka mine shaft.

Police Action and Ongoing Investigation

When the police arrived, some of the men reportedly fled through a man-made hole in the bedroom, while the homeowner and one other suspect were apprehended.

With the help of the mine’s security team, police discovered mine property and other equipment inside the house. The search for additional suspects is ongoing.

Response from Authorities

North West Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena praised the arrests and expressed gratitude for the team’s diligent work in tackling illegal mining activities.