They face charges of contravening immigration laws, as well as possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

Police confirmed that 21 of the accused are from Lesotho, while one is from Malawi. They were arrested last Friday after authorities monitored suspicious activity at a farm near Ventersdorp.

The suspects were allegedly found packing and wrapping food items, which police believe were intended for distribution to illegal miners operating at various shafts in and around Vaal Reefs near Orkney.

Following the arrest and processing of the crime scene, police seized large quantities of goods commonly used by illegal miners. These included 11 430 packets of 1kg instant porridge, 6,599 tins of baked beans, 3 510 cans of beef, and 2 700 cans of fish, among other items.

“The estimated market value of the seized goods is approximately R770 000,” said Police Spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele. “These items are believed to have been supplied to support illegal mining activities in the area.”

The accused are expected to reappear in court on Thursday for a formal bail application.

--ChannelAfrica--