GAUTENG — Two males have been arrested in Pretoria North following the discovery and dismantling of an illegal gold refinery operation on a smallholding in Rooiwal.
The operation was initiated after members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) K9 Unit received intelligence regarding an alleged illicit refining facility operating on a property in Houtkaper Street, Rooiwal. To verify the credibility of the tip-off, law enforcement conducted targeted surveillance and observation of the premises over several days.
Following the confirmation of the intelligence, authorities successfully applied for and obtained a search warrant. On Monday, 24 August 2026, a multidisciplinary tactical operation was launched. The joint effort comprised members of SAPS Pretoria North, the Tshwane K9 Unit, Proshield Security, and GAC Security, who executed the search warrant at the targeted location.
Upon searching the premises, the joint team discovered specialized gold refinery equipment alongside an active refining operation. Four suspects were initially found on the property. Law enforcement successfully arrested two male suspects, while the remaining two suspects fled the scene and have not yet been apprehended.
Various exhibits related to the illegal operation were confiscated and officially booked into SAPS Pretoria North to facilitate further investigation. The two arrested individuals remain in police custody at SAPS Pretoria North and are scheduled to appear in the Pretoria North Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.
Brigadier Kushie Pietersen, Acting District Commissioner of Tshwane, publicly commended the law enforcement and security personnel involved in the operation. Brigadier Pietersen praised the teams for their commitment, professionalism, and dedication in executing their duties to combat illicit economic activities in the region.
Authorities continue to appeal for any information that may lead to the apprehension of the two suspects who remain at large.
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