Potchefstroom, 25 August 2025 — North West police have opened an investigation after five male bodies were discovered at an open-cast mine in Tlhatlaganyane village, an area policed by the Sun City police station.

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According to the Office of the Provincial Commissioner, a multi-disciplinary team is on scene collecting information and evidence to determine what happened and to identify those responsible. Investigators will also work to confirm the identities of the deceased and establish why they were on the site before being shot and killed.

While the Tlhatlaganyane area has previously drawn attention from three National Parliament portfolio committees (Police, Home Affairs and Minerals) following complaints of illegal mining, police cautioned that no link to rival mining activity can be confirmed or ruled out at this stage. A comprehensive investigation is under way.

Police urged anyone with relevant information to report it to their nearest police station to assist the inquiry.

-The VIP Team

-nw saps

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