Operation Vala Umgodi ensures the arrest of a police sergeant with four others

A Police Sergeant (47), together with four others, were arrested by proactive members deployed on Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga. Their ages range between 22 and 48 and they were nabbed today, Saturday 22 March 2025 along the road between Barberton and Kapmuiden

During the disruptive operation in the Barberton area, the team spotted a gold Toyota Fortuner with Mpumalanga registration number plates, and there were five occupants inside. The vehicle was parked alongside the road, and the astute members conducted a search of the vehicle, which led to the discovery of some equipment often used for mining activities. The driver of the vehicle identified himself as a Police official, attached to Border Policing in Mpumalanga.

Preliminary investigation on the Police Sergeant indicates that he was arrested in May 2024 for alleged possession of dagga but was acquitted by the courts.

The suspects were arrested and charged for possession of illegal mining equipment. The suspects are expected to appear at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 March 2025.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi has welcomed the arrest of the suspects. “During the Police Deputy Minister’s engagement in Barberton, we promised to take decisive actions without being bias against those who are found to be in conflict with the law. These are signs of our determination and more should be expected, ” said the General.