| 2025/03/04 |
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Media Statement NELSPRUIT – Operation Vala Umgodi was executed by members deployed in Mpumalanga and their efforts were not in vain as it assisted in bringing 33 alleged illegal immigrants, aged between 18 and 45, to book. The suspects appeared at Graskop Magistrate’s Court yesterday, Monday 03 March 2025. During the arrest of the suspects at Pilgrims Rest on Sunday, 02 March 2025, the members from Combat, proactive environments of the Police and phoenix Security, discovered that the foreign nationals were in possession of some mining equipment. Amongst the suspects, five are females whilst 28 are males. The suspects were nabbed during the time when the team of law enforcement agencies were conducting a disruptive operation in the area of Pilgrim’s Rest. The astute members managed to confiscate 11 phendukas, 04 generators, 07 gas cylinders, a water tank with a capacity of 1000 litres, 02 motors, 02 cutting torches, Nad other items such as a water pump, spade, shovel, electrical cable, Jackhammer, as well as a pilot gun and these items are believed to be signs that the suspects could have been engaged in illegal mining activities, using the said items. During their court appearance, the case was postponed to 07 March 2025, and 10 March 2025 as well as 13 March 2025. The reason cited behind the postponement is for further investigation, including the verification of ages. The other reason is to avoid overcrowding in court. The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi has reiterated that law enforcement agencies will remain present in areas where illegal mining activities are prevalent and Operation Vala Umgodi will continue to conduct their duties.
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