175 Suspects apprehended within a week for illegal mining, possession of illicit cigarettes, counterfeit goods and three unlicensed firearms during Vala Umgodi operations

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo

POLOKWANE – The multidisciplinary Vala Umgodi operation, conducted from Monday, 09 December to Sunday, 15 December 2024, led to the arrest of 175 suspects and the recovery of a substantial quantity of illegal mining equipment, including spades, phendukas, picks, precious minerals, two illegal firearms, and a stolen motor vehicle among others.

The arrested suspects are facing a range of charges, including illegal mining, possession of illicit cigarettes, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of counterfeit goods, and contravention of the Immigration Act.

The operation, which focused on illegal mining hotspot areas, was carried out by members of the South African Police Service, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and the Department of Home Affairs.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Limpopo Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrests and praised the collaborative efforts of the various agencies. She urged all members to continue executing their duties diligently while adhering to the code of conduct.

Ends

Enquiries:
Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng
072 157 0779

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