33 ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS APPEAR IN COURT FOLLOWING OPERATION VALA UMGODI ARRESTS
The suspects, aged between 18 and 45, were apprehended on Sunday, 02 March 2025, in Pilgrim’s Rest by a joint force comprising members of the Police’s Combat and Proactive Environments unit alongside Phoenix Security personnel. Among those arrested, five are females and 28 are males.
EZOMPHAKATHI
The ongoing crackdown on illegal mining and unlawful activities in Mpumalanga has yielded significant results, with 33 alleged illegal immigrants appearing before the Graskop Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 03 March 2025. The arrests, carried out under Operation Vala Umgodi, underscore law enforcement’s commitment to combating crime in the region.
The suspects, aged between 18 and 45, were apprehended on Sunday, 02 March 2025, in Pilgrim’s Rest by a joint force comprising members of the Police’s Combat and Proactive Environments unit alongside Phoenix Security personnel. Among those arrested, five are females and 28 are males.
Illegal Mining Equipment Seized
During the operation, authorities discovered that the foreign nationals were in possession of mining equipment, raising suspicions of illegal mining activities. The confiscated items include:
11 phendukas
4 generators
7 gas cylinders
1,000-litre water tank
2 motors
2 cutting torches
Additional tools such as a water pump, spade, shovel, electrical cable, jackhammer, and a pilot gun
These findings reinforce concerns about illegal mining operations in the area and the detrimental effects they have on the environment and economy.
Court Proceedings and Case Postponement
During their court appearance, the case was postponed to 07 March, 10 March, and 13 March 2025. The postponement aims to facilitate further investigations, including age verification of the suspects, and to prevent overcrowding in court.
Law Enforcement Commitment to Ongoing Operations
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, reaffirmed law enforcement’s dedication to eradicating illegal mining and associated crimes. He emphasized that Operation Vala Umgodi will continue its operations in areas prone to such activities, ensuring sustained efforts in maintaining law and order.
Authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to combat crime and illegal mining, with continued vigilance expected to yield further arrests and seizures in the coming months.