Key points
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Three suspects, including a father and son, were arrested in Gauteng.
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The Hawks uncovered illegal trafficking of gold and platinum worth R10.2 million.
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The suspects face charges of trafficking gold without proper permits.
Three people, including a father and his son, were arrested in Gauteng for illegally trading precious metals and cash worth around R10.2 million.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) made the arrests during a special operation on Monday at the Crownwood Office Park.
Hawks uncover illegal gold trade
The operation began when Hawks officers stopped two suspects in their vehicles. Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Ramovha, a spokesperson for the Hawks, said one suspect had R100,000 in cash, while the other had R70,000.
These amounts are believed to be from illegal gold sales. Investigators later found that the suspects were running an unauthorized gold business with expired permits.
At the site, Hawks officers discovered gold and platinum worth about R5 million. They also found more than R5 million in cash. Officers also seized scales, calculators, and safes as further evidence.
Hawks fight against illegal mining
The suspects, aged 22, 62, and 24, are facing charges of illegally possessing and trading gold and second-hand jewelry without proper licenses. They are scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, April 9.
This operation shows the Hawks’ ongoing efforts to stop illegal mining and smuggling in South Africa. Brigadier Phumeza Klaas, acting provincial head of the Hawks in Gauteng, praised the officers for their hard work.
She stressed that the Hawks will keep using all resources to fight illegal activities that exploit South Africa’s precious metals.
Efforts continue to stop illegal gold trade
The case has been filed at the Booysens police station. The suspects will have their bail hearing on April 11 at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court. This operation is part of the Hawks’ continued efforts to break up illegal gold trade networks.
