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Media Statement NELSPRUIT – Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga led to the arrest of five suspects on 11 March 2025 in Pilgrim’s Rest (Gold Reef City). Amongst the arrested suspects, four were found to be undocumented foreign nationals whilst one was found in possession of precious metals. Through Operation Vala Umgodi, the men and women in Blue remain committed to working alongside other stakeholders to address illegal mining activities in the province. During this intelligence driven operation conducted by proactive police teams on the said date, the Combat Unit, in collaboration with Phoenix Security, the team nabbed the five suspects and the following items were confiscated: • Three gas cylinders • Three generators • Two gas pipes and nozzles All suspects appeared at the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court on 12 March 2025 where they all remained in custody. Makoka Armando (24), Muyana Vascho (20), and Maramba Jackson (22) will appear again at the same court on 02 April 2025 for contravention of Immigration Act of South Africa. Meanwhile Nelson Bobe (19) will appear on 17 March 2025 at the Graskop Magistrate’s Court also on charges of contravening the Immigration Act of South Africa. Hlompho Mokhele (23) appeared for the second time at the Graskop Magistrate’s Court yesterday, 13 March 2025, for unlawful possession of precious metals. He was granted bail of R1000-00 and will appear again on 09 April 2025. The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrests and emphasised that law enforcement agencies will continue with efforts to eradicate illegal mining activities. The General further reassured the public that more achievements are expected as the operation is intensified.
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