Ten suspects aged between 22 and 39 were nabbed for possession of gold bearing material and alleged illegal mining. The suspects were arrested on Wednesday, 02 April 2025 during Operation Vala Umgodi and appeared at the Secunda Magistrate’s Court on Friday 04 April 2025.
An intelligence driven operation was carried out by the combat team at Evander Mine in Secunda. The information was received about illegal mining activities at the sports ground near Embalenhle.
Upon arrival at the place, the suspects were caught in the act, busy with alleged illegal mining activities. It was during this time when they were apprehended.
The suspects were then charged for possession of gold bearing material and for illegal mining.
Amongst the confiscated items are various mining equipment, wheelbarrows, picks, crowbars, water pumps, and other illegal mining items.
During their court appearance, the case was postponed to Wednesday, 09 April 2025 whilst the 10 suspects remain in custody. The suspects were identified as follows:
1.Renang Nkhona ( 23) 2.Teboho Matespa ( 45 3.Thembelani Sabisa (35)
4.Gugukani Magadla (39 )
5.Mkgutlisi Tshilwane (34)
6.Molefe Ntoetsi (34)
7.Malefetsane Makoetjie ( 42 )
8.Tankiso Sefako (22)
9.Josias Sithole (18) and
10.Tumisang Mahobe (23).
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi is elated by the consistent activities carried out by the members in addressing illegal mining activities.
