Operation Vala Umgodi in Limpopo leads to the arrest of illegal immigrants, illegal miners and confiscation of drugs

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

POLOKWANE – Members of Operation Vala Umgodi continue to display their dedication in eliminating illegal mining activities and associated crimes across the province, this follows the arrest of suspects at the Sekhukhune, Vhembe and Mopani Districts, on Saturday, 19 April 2025.

In Sekhukhune District, two suspects aged 37 and 59 were arrested for illegal mining of sand at Thabampshe Village in Masemola Policing area. According to information, the members were patrolling at the identified illegal mining sites at the area, when they noticed two males busy loading sand utilizing a white tipper truck and a front loader truck. The suspects were approached and arrested. Both vehicles were then confiscated.

Meanwhile, in Vhembe and Mopani Districts, six suspects aged between 29 and 43 were arrested for contravention of immigration laws at Saselamani and Lulekani Policing areas. In another incident at Waterberg District, Police confiscated an abandoned hammer at one of the illegal mining sites at Mokopane Policing area.

The suspects will soon appear before the local Magistrate’s Court.

The Police investigations are continuing.
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