By Abigail Visagie
 
Three suspects were arrested during a police raid in the quarters of Welkom Gold Mine on Thursday.
 
Commander of Operation Vala Umgodi, Colonel Nonthando Ndzotyana said a team consisting of the Tactical Response Unit, Department of Home Affairs, and SSG Security Company raided the Kopanang Gold Plant employees quarters in Virginia, Free State, following a tip-off.
 
They were searching for trespassers with the aim of rooting out illegal activities taking place in the male quarters, including alleged trafficking of foreign national women.
 
“We were tipped off by our sources that females were seen at the males’ quarters. Bear in mind that no females should be found within the quarters, nor should anyone be found inside without a valid permit,” said Ndzotyana.
 
According to Ndzotyana, two females (foreign nationals) were found trespassing in the mine’s male quarters, as well as a male suspect found in possession of an unlicensed firearm, dagga, and a presumed stolen SANDF uniform.
 
The suspects are expected to appear before the local magistrate court soon.