Police nab more suspects during Operation Vala Umgodi in Limpopo

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

POLOKWANE – A total of 36 suspects, aged between 20 and 52, were nabbed during Vala Umgodi Operation between Tuesday, 08 April 2025 and Thursday 10 April 2025, for illegal mining of sand and contravention of immigration laws at Sekhukhune, Vhembe, Capricorn, and Mopani districts

In Capricorn, five suspects, aged between 28 and 44, were arrested for illegal mining of sand at Nkumpi River in Mahlareng Village at Magatle Policing area. The members received information and swiftly responded, which led to the arrest of suspects and confiscation of trucks and other items.

Whereas, in Mopani, 19 suspects, aged between 20 and 44, were detained for contravention of immigration laws in the Tzaneen, Letsitele, Makhado, Namakgale, Seshego Policing areas, on Tuesday, 08 April 2025 and Thursday 09 April 2025.

Six suspects, aged between 27 and 52, were arrested for illegal mining at Dikgalaopeng in the Motetema Policing area at Sekhukhune District. Reportedly, the Police found the suspects busy mining illegally in the area. They did not have a permit to mine, and they were then arrested.

Meanwhile, in Vhembe, six suspects, aged between 28 and 48, were arrested separately at Tshilaphala Village in Vuwani and in Nwaxinyamani Village, Waterval Policing areas for illegal mining of sand. They also confiscated abandoned items at Mvudi River, Manini Village in Thohoyandou, during the disruptive operations.

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

The Police investigations are continuing.

Ends

Enquiries:
Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng
082 585 4603

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