Hawks arrest nine and seize R23m worth of precious metals in Greenstone
Nine people have been arrested after the Hawks seized precious metals and specialised processing equipment worth an estimated R23 million in Greenstone, east of Johannesburg.
The suspects, aged between 20 and 56, are expected to appear in the Edenvale Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team launched the operation after receiving intelligence about a foreign national allegedly involved in trading unwrought gold dust and nuggets sourced from illegal miners.
According to the Hawks, the team conducted surveillance before executing a search warrant at a targeted property in Greenstone on Tuesday.
Two women and seven men were found at the premises and detained.
During the search, investigators seized about 20kg of palladium, 11kg of osmium and specialised machinery allegedly used to process unwrought gold.
The Hawks said the suspects were unable to produce valid permits, licences or company registration documents authorising them to trade in or handle precious metals.
All nine were subsequently arrested.
Gauteng Hawks acting provincial head Brigadier Wendy Mashwabane commended the investigation team for what she described as swift and decisive action.
“This breakthrough is a significant blow to illegal mining value chains in the province,” Mashwabane said.
She urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to law enforcement.
The suspects face charges of contravening the Precious Metals Act 37 of 2005.
Investigations are continuing.
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