Operation Vala Umgodi rounds up illegal miners in joint forces effort

The crackdown on illicit mining activities in Limpopo Province continues to intensify as Operation Vala Umgodi, a collaborative initiative between multiple law enforcement agencies, makes significant strides in combating this unlawful practice.

On Sunday, 10 March 2024, a coordinated effort involving a multi-disciplinary team comprising of military and police members resulted in the apprehension of 38 illegal immigrants engaged in illegal mining activities across Sekhukhune and Vhembe Districts, as well as at the Beitbridge Port of Entry. Additionally, the police seized a substantial amount of mining equipment at various illegal mining sites.

On Monday, 11 March 2024, further progress was made as police officers confiscated significant stockpiles of chrome and platinum abandoned at illegal mining sites in the Sekhukhune District, underscoring the impactful nature of Operation Vala Umgodi in curbing illicit mining operations.

The Crime Combating Illegal Mining Task Team, comprised of members from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), has been proactive in operationalizing gathered intelligence to target and apprehend suspected illegal miners at identified illegal mining sites.

Among the mining equipment seized during the execution of Operation Vala Umgodi are jackhammers, phendukas, chisels, hammers, wheelbarrows, shovels, crowbars, drilling bits and electrical cables highlighting the enforcement efforts to disrupt and dismantle illegal mining operations in the region.

The joint operation remains committed to upholding the law, safeguarding natural resources, and dismantling illicit mining networks that pose a threat to the well-being and safety of communities in Limpopo.