Two Namibians Arrested in South Africa With R37 Million Worth of Diamonds.

The members of the South African intelligence services (State Security Agency). In a significant development, four individuals, comprising t...

The members of the South African intelligence services (State Security Agency).

In a significant development, four individuals, comprising two South Africans and two Namibians, were apprehended in Pretoria for the alleged possession of diamonds valued at R37 million. The arrests were made as a result of a joint operation conducted by law enforcement agencies, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities related to the diamond trade. 

Science Techniz provide an overview of the incident and shed light on the circumstances surrounding the arrests. On June 4, 2023, law enforcement authorities in Pretoria acted upon intelligence and apprehended two South African nationals and two Namibian nationals in connection with the possession of a substantial quantity of diamonds.

Police Operation

According to Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba, the Spokesperson for the TMPD, a crime intelligence operation was conducted by the Police's K9 unit members on Saturday, June 3. During the operation, the police intercepted conversations related to diamond dealings and received information about a delivery that was supposed to take place at a mall in Mayville, Pretoria.

Acting swiftly, the police team rushed to the specified location and strategically positioned themselves, waiting in ambush for the suspects to arrive. Soon enough, a white Honda vehicle appeared with four individuals on board. Without hesitation, the police apprehended the suspects. 

Four people have been arrested in Pretoria for alleged possession diamonds worth almost R4 million. Photo: TMPD.

Upon searching their belongings, the officers discovered that the suspects were in possession of 36 diamonds. The group comprised three men and one woman, with ages ranging from 49 to 62. Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba further stated, "During the operation, our officers diligently followed up on information regarding the planned delivery of diamonds at a mall in Mayville, Pretoria."

The individuals were taken into custody, and the diamonds, estimated to be worth R37 million, were seized as evidence. The operation involved the collaboration of multiple agencies to ensure a comprehensive investigation into the alleged illegal activity.

The successful arrests in Pretoria were made possible through the coordinated efforts of intelligence services from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Namibia Central Intelligence Service (NCIS), the South African intelligence services, specifically the State Security Agency (SSA), and specialized police units dedicated to combating organized crime. 

The collaboration between authorities from South Africa and Namibia demonstrates a shared commitment to tackling transnational crimes associated with the diamond trade, money laundering, and human trafficking, while actively working to prevent illicit activities within the region.

By pooling their resources and expertise, these intelligence services were able to gather and analyze vital information, leading to the apprehension of the suspects involved in the possession of diamonds worth millions of Rand. The collaboration highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating cross-border criminal activities, particularly in areas where criminal networks exploit porous borders and engage in illicit trade.

The joint efforts of the intelligence services go beyond addressing diamond-related crimes alone. The mention of money laundering and human trafficking indicates a broader scope of their operations, aiming to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks involved in various illegal activities. By targeting these interconnected criminal enterprises, the intelligence services contribute to maintaining the security

Investigation and Charges

Following the arrests, an investigation was initiated to gather additional evidence and ascertain the origin and intended destination of the seized diamonds. Authorities will likely examine the documentation related to the diamonds, such as invoices, certificates, and ownership records, to determine if the suspects were involved in any illicit trade activities. Charges are expected to be filed against the apprehended individuals in accordance with relevant national and international laws governing the diamond trade.

Diamond Trade Regulations

Diamond trade regulations are in place to prevent the illegal smuggling, trading, and laundering of diamonds, particularly those associated with conflict zones. In South Africa and Namibia, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is implemented to ensure that diamonds are ethically sourced and traded.

 The KPCS is an international initiative involving multiple governments, industry representatives, and civil society organizations to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds into the legitimate market. The successful joint operation between law enforcement agencies from South Africa and Namibia underscores the commitment to addressing transnational crimes and preventing illicit activities within the region.

Diamonds, along with gold, are indeed highly valued and protected resources due to their intrinsic worth. Even the security measures surrounding the transportation and handling of these precious commodities are typically well guarded, involving heavy security and armed escorts. However, despite these precautions, there are several ways in which diamonds can find their way into the hands of mafias and criminals. Here are a few common methods of how the diamonds get into the hands of mafias and criminals:

Theft: Criminals may plan and execute heists targeting diamond mines, diamond-cutting and polishing facilities, or high-security diamond vaults. They may employ various tactics such as armed robberies, insider collusion, or elaborate break-ins to gain access to the diamonds.

Illegal Mining: In some regions, illegal mining operations take place outside the purview of legitimate diamond mining companies. Criminal organizations engage in these activities to exploit diamond-rich areas without adhering to legal and ethical standards. The diamonds obtained through illegal mining channels are then smuggled into the black market.

Corruption: Instances of corruption within the supply chain can facilitate the illicit trade of diamonds. Government officials in positions of power, such as customs officers, law enforcement personnel, or politicians, may be bribed to turn a blind eye or actively participate in allowing the illegal movement of diamonds.

Compromised Certification: Criminals may counterfeit or manipulate diamond certifications and paperwork, making it difficult to trace the origin and legitimacy of the diamonds. By exploiting gaps in the certification process, they can introduce illegally obtained diamonds into the market without arousing suspicion.

Efforts are continuously made by governments, international organizations, and the diamond industry itself to combat the illicit trade in diamonds. Initiatives like the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme aim to regulate the diamond trade and prevent the circulation of conflict or blood diamonds.

Improved security measures, enhanced cooperation between law enforcement agencies, and stricter regulations are essential in mitigating the risk of diamonds falling into the hands of mafias and criminals.