Retention of minerals

(1) Where the Inspector has reasonable cause to suspect that– (a) minerals have been obtained from land not the subject of a claim, quarry permit or mineral right; or (b) the rent payable has not been paid; or (c) minerals have been stolen or are not the property of the person in whose possession they are found; Mines and Minerals 35 he may retain the minerals, and, if such minerals are retained by any authorized officer, such officer shall forward a report to the Inspector explaining the reasons for the retention. (2) The Inspector shall, on retention or upon receipt of the report, make inquiries and take such action as he may think fit. (3) All expenses incurred in retaining the minerals, if any, shall be a charge against the person in whose possession they were found, and the minerals shall not be released by the Inspector until the expenses have been paid.