Ex-Cop’s Links to Zama Zamas in Gauteng Under Investigation

The Serious Organised Crimes Unit of the Gauteng Hawks is currently investigating potential connections between a former member of the Gold and Diamond Unit of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and illegal mining syndicates operating in Benoni.

On May 2, the ex-police officer was apprehended at his upscale residence in Rynfield following an ongoing investigation that uncovered purported evidence warranting a search of his property.

According to Colonel Philani Nkwalase, spokesperson for the Hawks, the accused was allegedly found to possess gold, platinum, and a substantial undisclosed sum of money. Additionally, law enforcement officials seized an analysis machine and a money-counting device during the operation.

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Upon arrest, the accused claimed to work as a smelt operator at a smelt house in Springs. However, preliminary inquiries revealed that his residential premises were not registered for commercial use, and he lacked the necessary permit to purchase or trade precious metals or diamonds from his home, as stated by Nkwalase.

The possibility of links between the accused and illicit mining activities occurring within the city is being explored, with ongoing investigations and further arrests anticipated.

On May 26, the Benoni Regional Court granted the man bail of R20,000.

Source: Links between ex-cop and Zama Zamas in Gauteng investigated

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