Police in the Namakwa District are stepping up operations to combat illegal mining and diamond trading in the region.

Police says the Port Nolloth police received an anonymous tip on last week friday, 30 January,  that two men were selling diamonds from a parked vehicle in town.

Members quickly located the identified Nissan Light Delivery Van opposite the beach and, upon searching it, discovered a significant quantity of unpolished diamonds concealed in the steering wheel cover.

Cpt. Ivan Magerman, regional police spokesperson says two men, aged 25 and 34, were arrested on the spot and are expected to appear in Port Nolloth Court on charges of illegal possession of diamonds.

The arrests highlight the ongoing commitment of the South African Police Service in the Namakwa District to tackle illegal diamond dealing and related crimes.