Geologist arrested for unlawful possession of chrome worth R 20 million

A Sekhukhune-based Geologist, Jan Aucamp appeared before the Praktiseer District Court in Limpopo on Wednesday for unlawful possession of chrome.

On 12 December 2023, members from Polokwane Serious Organised Crime Investigation in collaboration with SAPS- Sekhukhune District, Local Criminal Record Centre, South African National Defence Force and SSG security company conducted an intelligence-driven illegal mining disruptive operation at Steelpoort in Burgersfort.

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Acting on intelligence, members of the team pounced on the accused at Steelpoort Triton Chrome storage. They found chrome stockpiles with an estimated value of over R20 million stored in the yard.

The accused was asked to produce a permit to be in possession of the chrome stockpiles. But he failed and he was subsequently arrested.

GEOLOGIST CAUGHT WITH UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF CHROME

Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused is a geologist by profession. The accused was remanded in custody until 19 December 2023 for a formal bail application.

The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Limpopo Province Major General Gopz Govender has issued a stern warning against illegal miners that the Hawks will deal with them irrespective of their status.