BAPONG - Police top brass visited Bapong in the North West on Monday.
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia and National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola joined North West Premier Lazarus Mokgosi as illegal mining surges in the area.
The police believe the rapid increase of illegal miners is a result of organised crime.
Authorities are concerned that they need to evolve their strategy to combat these criminal syndicates.
"Gang violence and illegal mining are all examples of organised crime, and that requires strong intelligence capabilities and strong investigative capabilities," Cachalia said.
Mokgosi said the situation here is dire.
"The situation requires a different approach. As government, we need a multidisciplinary approach," he said.
Masemola provided an update on ongoing cases in the area, including the confiscations of machines used in illegal mining activities.
Police units have been deployed in the area to stabilise security, maintain visibility, and investigate.
Masemola shared updates on several high-profile crimes, including the mass shooting that occurred in Saulsville.
One person, suspected to be one of the shooters, was arrested in Limpopo and appeared in court to face charges of the illegal possession of a firearm.