Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga led to the arrest of seven suspects on 28 March 2025 in Sabie (Simile). The arrested suspects, aged between 18 and 67, were found to be undocumented foreign nationals.
Through Operation Vala Umgodi, the men and women in blue remain committed to working alongside other stakeholders to address illegal mining activities in the province. During an intelligence driven operation conducted by the proactive and combat team in collaboration with Phoenix Security, the seven suspects were nabbed.
During the operation, illegal mining equipment were confiscated, which included Phendukas, gas cylinders, motors, oxygen cylinders, and generators
The suspects are expected to appear at the Sabie Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 31 March 2025, on charges of contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrests and emphasised that law enforcement agencies will continue with efforts to eradicate illegal mining activities. The General further reassured the public that more achievements are expected as the operation is heightened.
