A coordinated series of operations conducted under Operation Vala Umgodi has led to multiple arrests across several provinces for offences including illegal mining, possession of unlicensed firearms, smuggling of illicit goods, and contravention of immigration laws. The operations, executed between 30 June and 3 July 2025, involved multidisciplinary teams consisting of SAPS officers, mine security, private contractors, and immigration officials.
Limpopo: Illegal Mining Activity at Heritage Sites and Abandoned Shafts
On 2 July, the Capricorn and Waterberg District Vala Umgodi Task Team carried out targeted inspections at the Makapane Valley Heritage Site and the Eersteling Monument. At the first site, abandoned mining equipment was found and seized, although no suspects were present. Later, at around 14:00, the team responded to reports of active illegal mining at the Eersteling Monument. Five individuals were arrested at the scene while loading mining equipment. A small container concealing gold was found on one of the suspects. All five face charges related to illegal mining.
Earlier the same day, a separate team operating in Diphalé village conducted a raid at approximately 04:10 based on intelligence of illegal activity at an abandoned mineshaft. Three male suspects, aged 64, 28, and 29, were caught in the act and arrested. They face charges related to illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act. Seized equipment included a generator, jackhammer, wheelbarrow, and shovel.
Mpumalanga: Repeated Raids in Pilgrim’s Rest Yield Immigration Arrests
In Pilgrim’s Rest, operations carried out on 2 and 3 July resulted in the arrest of 12 individuals for immigration-related offences. On 2 July, six foreign nationals, aged between 18 and 24, were arrested after being found at an old mine site without valid documentation. One suspect faces additional charges for resisting arrest and assaulting police officers. Officers seized various mining tools including picks, shovels, and generators.
A second operation on 3 July, involving the Combat team, Proactive team, and Phoenix Security Company, led to the arrest of another six undocumented foreign nationals, aged between 18 and 28. All suspects are expected to appear at the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court. Police are working with the Department of Home Affairs to confirm the suspects’ legal status.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the officers involved for their continued efforts under Operation Vala Umgodi.
Free State: Firearms, Illicit Mining and Smuggling Operations Disrupted
In the early hours of 1 July, a Vala Umgodi Combat Team operating in Welkom conducted a targeted raid at G Hostel in Thabong, following intelligence reports. Two suspects were found in possession of a revolver hidden under a bed, while another three individuals in an adjacent room were discovered with a rifle concealed under a pillow. All five, aged between 27 and 29, were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
Later that day, police patrolling the area with drone assistance apprehended a 26-year-old male actively engaged in illegal mining near his residence. Gold-bearing material was found in his possession.
Authorities also reported that 87 undocumented foreign nationals have been arrested in recent operations across mining areas in Welkom, Virginia, Vierfontein, and Theunissen. These individuals are facing charges including contravention of the Immigration Act, trespassing, illegal mining, and possession of suspected stolen goods.
On 2 July, in Wepener, a self-initiated operation led officers to a parked truck at a petrol station. Upon inspection, 44 boxes of illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R150,000 were discovered. Two suspects, aged 50 and 34, were arrested for possession of suspected illicit goods. Officials from the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs confirmed the cigarettes were illegal.
Gauteng: Mining Equipment Seized During Springs Operation
On 30 June, the integrated Vala Umgodi team conducted an operation in Springs which resulted in the seizure of 18 phendukas, 110 steel balls, and one electric motor used in illegal mining activities. Officers also performed stop-and-search operations and searched seven premises, which resulted in several arrests.
Authorities have stated that these actions are part of sustained efforts to combat illegal mining and related crimes. Law enforcement agencies involved in Operation Vala Umgodi have reiterated their commitment to continued enforcement operations aimed at protecting mineral resources, ensuring compliance with immigration laws, and upholding public safety.
The post Police continue to disrupt illegal mining and smuggling operations appeared first on ProtectionWeb.
The post Police continue to disrupt illegal mining and smuggling operations appeared first on defenceWeb.
