Operation Vala Umgodi sets the record straight with illegal mining in Lejweleputswa

Lejweleputswa District as one of the focus areas in the province with a problem of illegal mining activities was ear marked for operation “Vala Umgodi”.

This multi-disciplinary operation which has different police units working together with the Airwing and private sector, has for the past 7 days resulted in the arrests of about 35 illegal immigrants from mining towns such as Allanridge, Welkom, Virginia, Vierfontein, Bronville and Welkom areas. The arrests came with confiscation of gold bearing materials and illegal mining equipment.

Stop and searches are held on different areas as well as vehicle check points.

On Tuesday 12 March 2024 at about 10:45 members while conducting illicit mining operations around Virginia, arrested six suspects between the ages of 20 and 35 years old at a farm in the outskirts of Virginia for possession of possible gold bearing material worth an estimated value of R800 000, possession of possible Gold Processing Equipment and contravention of Immigrations law.

All suspects, which are foreign nationals, appeared in the Welkom magistrate court and their case was postponed for formal bail application.

The team also assists in normal crime prevention activities and holds vehicle check points where vehicles are processed and checked if they are not used in transportation of illegal items such as drugs and stolen goods.

Operation Vala Umgodi continues in the areas falling under Lejweleputswa and Moqhaka area.