Police arrested 23 undocumented illegal mine workers in the West Rand. PHOTO: Supplied
Police respond to shootout but instead find illegal miners involved
Police and security guards responded to a shootout at a dumping site but found that it was due to a feud between illegal miners.
Police arrested 23 undocumented illegal mine workers in the West Rand. PHOTO: Supplied
Police responded to an alert of a shootout in the West Rand on Wednesday. But upon arriving, they found the gunfire was actually between feuding illegal miners.
SHOOTOUT IN THE WEST RAND LEADS TO ARRESTS OF ZAMA ZAMAS
Police and security guards on Tuesday responded to a shootout at a dumping site. The Westonaria police attended to the scene and found three men injured with gunshot wounds, said police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo.
“Preliminary investigation suggests a rivalry fight between the groups of illegal miners.”
Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo
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RIVALRY LEADS TO THE ARREST OF 23 ILLEGAL MINE WORKERS
Further investigations at the scene commenced, leading to the discovery of 23 undocumented foreign nationals. They were found near the scene of the crime, said Masondo.
All 23 of them were arrested and are expected to appear before the Westonaria Magistrates Court soon.
“One of the arrested suspects was further charged with attempted murder and unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm. This is after a firearm was found in his possession,” Masondo said.
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ZAMA ZAMAS ACCUSED OF GANG RAPE IN WEST RAND HAVE CHARGES WITHDRAWN
Meanwhile, the 13 men accused of the July gang rape of eight women in Krugersdorp in July have had the rape charges withdrawn.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said last month that they withdrew the rape, sexual assault and robbery with aggravating circumstances against all the men, including one minor who was also charged.
Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said it became clear there was insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution.
“The prosecution will however continue in the Krugersdorp Magistrates Court in respect of charges of the Contravention of the Immigration Act. Prosecutorial-guided investigations will continue in pursuit of justice for all women affected by this heinous crime,” said Mjonondwane.
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