Bakkie full of bling: Two nabbed in Port Nolloth diamond bust

A TIP-OFF turned into a glittering bust when police officers intercepted a bakkie near Port Nolloth and uncovered a stash of unpolished diamonds believed to be linked to illegal mining operations.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said the dramatic takedown unfolded this week, when members of the provincial Operation Vala Umgodi task team based at the Kleinzee Venue Operational Centre sprang into action after receiving information from members of the public about a suspicious vehicle. 

The bakkie was allegedly ferrying illegal miners and diamonds from the Nuttabooi mining area to Port Nolloth.

Acting swiftly, the team intercepted the vehicle - a white Ford bakkie - as it neared the coastal town. A thorough search uncovered a significant cache of rough diamonds,  in what police believe may be part of a broader illegal mining network operating in the region.

Two men, aged 29 and 35, were promptly arrested and now face charges relating to the unlawful possession of unpolished diamonds. They are expected to make their first court appearance soon.

The bust forms part of a broader crackdown under Operation Vala Umgodi, which targets the surge in illicit mining activities across the Northern Cape. Authorities credit strong community co-operation in helping identify and report criminal activity - a partnership that is beginning to show serious results.

Sergeant Sam said members of the public are encouraged to report any criminal activity by calling the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or using the MySAPS app.