The South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with the SANDF, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), and Immigration authorities, successfully arrested sixteen (16) individuals for violations related to illegal immigration and illegal mining of sand during a series of disruptive operations conducted by the Vhala Umgodi task team across Limpopo.
The operations, aimed at curbing illegal mining and related criminal activities, were carried out between Thursday, 9 January and the early hours of Friday, 10 January 2025, across various districts such as Sekhukhune, Vhembe, Waterberg and Mopani. These coordinated efforts resulted in the apprehension of a total of 11 individuals found to be in the country unlawfully in Siloam, Mphephu, Giyani, and Mokopane policing areas.
Five individuals were arrested for illegally mining sand in the Jane Furse, Rakgoadi, and Hlogotlou policing precincts, Sekhukhune District. During the arrests, ten shovels, two picks, and two spades were confiscated.
The Vala Umgodi task team remains vigilant in safeguarding communities, and operations are ongoing to ensure public safety, maintain law and order.
The arrested suspects will soon appear before their respective Magistrate’s Court.
