| 2025/01/09 |
|
Media Statement POLOKWANE – A multidisciplinary task team comprising of the Tactical Joint Operational Centre (TACJOC), Mission Area Joint Operation Centre (Roving Team), and Vhembe District conducted Operation Vala Umgodi on Wednesday, 08 January 2025, across the Malamulele and Thohoyandou policing areas. The operation targeted illegal mining and other criminal activities, including counterfeit operations. Disruptive operations were carried out around the Madonsi and Muchipisi illegal mining sites, along with intensified patrols at the shopping centres within Malamulele and Thohoyandou CBD. During the operation, seven undocumented persons aged between 24 and 36, suspected of being involved in illicit mining activities, were apprehended. With assistance from SAPS drone pilots, five suspects were arrested while hiding in the bushes near Muchipisi village. The other two individuals were arrested at their rented house in Dingi village. When they attempted to flee in different directions on foot, officers swiftly gave chase and captured them. All the arrested suspects will be profiled to determine their potential involvement in other illegal activities. Police visibility was enhanced at Thohoyandou CBD, leading to the seizure of counterfeit clothing with an estimated value of almost R600 000-00 from one of the shops. A 37-year-old foreign national male was arrested for possession of counterfeit goods and contravention of the immigration Act. South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Department of Home Affairs were part of this operation. Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, commended all members involved in Operation Vala Umgodi for their hard work and commitment in ensuring safety in the mining areas. The arrested suspects will soon appear before the Malamulele and Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court. Ends
Enquiries:
X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService |
|
|
| Additional content: |
|
|
