South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Namakwa region has arrested two suspects for alleged illegal mining activities at Beesbank in Alexander Bay on Friday, 26 September 2026.

Alexander Bay police members responded to information about illegal mining and apprehended the two 42-year-old suspects.

Police seized several bags containing suspected diamond-bearing gravel, as well as digging equipment believed to have been used in the illegal operation.

Police says the suspects are facing charges of illegal prospecting and mining without authorisation, in contravention of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, as well as trespassing.

Cpt. Ivan Magerman, regional police spokesperson says the suspects are expected to appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 28 September 2026.

Namakwa District Commissioner Brigadier Schalk Andrews has commended police for their swift response and warned that illegal mining will not be tolerated.