11 arrested for alleged extortion at local Limpopo mine – SABC News

Limpopo police have arrested eleven suspects in Praktiër, outside Burgersfort, for alleged extortion at a local mine.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba says the local business forum has reportedly threatened to close and disrupt mining operations if the mine does not issue tenders to them and meet their other demands.

Colonel Ledwaba said the suspects were arrested when they tried to block the mine entrance.

“Following other agreements between the mine and the business forum, the two sides disagreed on a number of conditions, including the requirement to obtain mining tenders.

The forum members are said to have threatened to close and disrupt mining operations on November 15, 2024 if the mine does not meet their demands. On Friday, November 15, 2024 around 12 noon, the 11 members of the Business Forum gathered at the mine gate. , and they were immediately arrested. They will appear in court on Monday, November 18, 2024.”