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Members of the police and army on deployment for Operation Vala Umgodi in the Free State have found a food packaging operation on a farm outside Theunissen supporting illegal miners underground.
Lieutenant-Colonel Thabo Covane said six people, three men, and three women, were arrested at the Thusana Trust farm.
He said a drone was used in the operation which took place at first light on Thursday.
Covane said police found 2 500 cans of energy drinks, 2 600 tins of corned meat, 2 600 units of instant porridge, and 2 000 packs of powdered milk.
He said a “highly sophisticated camera” was also found on the property which he said can be monitored from another location.
Covane said a case docket of conspiracy to commit the crime of illicit mining and aiding illegal underground miners was opened at Theunissen police.
The suspects are due to appear in court soon.
#sapsFS Members of operation Vala Umgodi in the Free State are currently processing a scene where packaged foodstuffs intended to be delivered for underground illegal miners were found at a farm near R708 outside Theunissen. Six suspects were arrested for conspiracy to commit… pic.twitter.com/bOjHQhk7x7
— SA Police Service ???????? (@SAPoliceService) April 3, 2025
