An illegal Chinese foreigner "illegal mining kingpin", Cheng Liang Tom, has appeared in the Northam Magistrate's Court in Limpopo, after he was detained earlier this week

An illegal Chinese foreigner "illegal mining kingpin" has appeared in the Northam Magistrate's Court in Limpopo, after he was detained earlier this week. 

Cheng Liang Tom, 48, made an appearance in court on Thursday in relation to unauthorised mining operations.

His arrest has been linked to a Hawks investigation into a R1.2-million chrome bust last year.

"On 3 August 2022, members of the Hawks arrested four suspected illegal miners who were found in possession of chrome that was loaded in a truck without a permit. The chrome was valued at R1.2 million," said Maluleke.

The man is being held in custody until Friday 3 March, when he will be able to apply for bail.

City Press previously reported that illegal chrome mining appeared to be on the increase, feeding a growing demand for it in China.

South Africa is the world's biggest producer of chrome ore and, by estimates, loses about 10% of its production each year to illegal mining.