A 36-year-old suspect was arrested between Ngodwana and Waterval Boven, Airline area on Sunday 23 March 2025, for Contravention of the Immigration Act, possession of suspected gold bearing material and possession of illegal mining equipment, thanks to Operation Vala Umgodi as it continues to make an impact. The suspect was apprehended after members received a tip-off about suspected illegal mining activities.
The Combat and Proactive team swiftly operationalised the information, and upon arrival at the airline area, a man, suspected to be a spotter, was seen running to possibly warn others. It was during this time when the female suspect was cornered as she tried to flee.
During the arrest of the suspects, the team managed to confiscate illegal mining equipment consisting of phendukas, generators, gas cylinders, and other illicit mining equipment.
The suspect is facing a charge of possession of gold bearing material and equipment as well as contravention of the Immigration Act. She is expected to appear before the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 March 2025
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has commended members for the exceptional work done through Operation Vala Umgodi
