Opeation Vala Umgodi yields positive results after police arrested six suspects

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

NELSPRUIT – An intelligence driven operation led to the arrest of six suspects aged between 29 and 33 for illegal mining activities and contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.

The suspects were arrested today, Tuesday 23 July 2024, by Mpumalanga members attached to Operation Vala Umgodi.

During the time of the arrest, four suspects were found with gold bearing material and equipment believed to be used in illegal mining activities.

All suspects are expected to appear at the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 25 July 2024.

The investigators are working in conjunction with officials from the Department of Home Affairs probing the status of two amongst the arrested suspects, who were found without valid documentation to be in South Africa.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi has applauded members for their continuous fight against illegal mining activities.

Ends

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Colonel Donald Mdhluli
082 608 6540

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