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Hawks Bust Illegal Gold Smuggling Operation in Gauteng
Three suspects have been arrested in Greenstone, Gauteng, for allegedly running an illegal gold smuggling operation. The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks, executed a carefully planned raid on December 6, 2024, at the Greenstone Ridge complex.
Gauteng Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha stated that the Johannesburg Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) team had been monitoring the suspects before applying for a search warrant through the Germiston Magistrate’s Court.
During the raid, two suspects attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended. The search of the premises uncovered three gold nuggets, suspected gold dust, and equipment used in gold smelting. The total value of the seized items is estimated at R2.5 million.
The suspects, identified as Isaac Ngunyamba, Comfort Chinema, and Aron Mahoso, appeared before the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on December 9, 2024. The case was postponed to allow for bail proceedings, scheduled for Friday.
This arrest is part of a series of operations targeting illegal gold smuggling in Gauteng. Last month, two men were arrested in Brakpan for unlawfully possessing gold valued at R15 million.
Captain Ramovha reported that 33-year-old Zimbabwean Joachim Chivayo and 20-year-old South African Ayanda Brian Gungwa were caught with six bars of unwrought gold while trying to secure a buyer. During their arrest at Helderwyk Estate, law enforcement also seized a Mercedes-Benz SUV.
The Hawks have intensified their efforts against illegal precious metal trading, which has become a significant issue in South Africa. Ramovha highlighted the importance of these operations in disrupting organized crime and protecting the country’s mineral resources.
As investigations continue, the Hawks urge the public to report any suspicious activities involving precious metals to authorities.
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