ASIHAMBI LA!
As the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) cracks down on illegal mining activities in Pigg’s Peak, the service has taken a stand of manning the entry points of the old Pigg’s Peak Mine.
Launched over a week ago, REPS’ tactical operation targeting illegal mining in northen Hhohho, has seen nine people being arrested including three foreign nationals.
The police have vowed and committed to not moving an inch, at least for the next coming days.
The officers have also roped-in the Operation Support Services Unit (OSSU) in this operation.
Committed to obliterating illegal mining activities, REPS has set up a camp at one of the entrances of the abandoned mine.
“They will man that area day and night, making sure that no one carried out illegal mining, while also being on course to nab illegal miners who are assumed to be still underground.”
Yesterday senior police officers led by Assistant Commissioner Clement Sihlongonyane and Pigg’s Peak Desk Officer were at the mine assessing the situation on the ground and proceeded to Hhelehhele where the operation has spread to.
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Sources claimed that there were other illegal miners assumed to be still underground carrying out the mining activity.
There are a number of entrance and exit points in the mine used by the ‘zama-zamas’.
Deputy Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni said the operation would continue for the next few days. She said the operation was aimed at dismantling all illegal mining activities in the northern Hhohho region.
Mnguni said they were weakening the operation as believed they nine suspects had been arrested and appeared in court.
“We have noted that there is a lot of illegal mining activity that has been going on, but our investigations are still ongoing.
“We appeal to the communities to report any suspicious illegal mining activities and the information shared with the police will be confidential,” Mnguni said.
She assured that they would continue to protect the country’s natural resources.
