Three suspects, aged between 21 and 38, were arrested on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, by members from the Proactive and Combat team, deployed for Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga.
The team was conducting disruptive operations at Majacks informal settlement at the Pilgrim’s Rest area. It was during this time when the three suspects were arrested for failing to produce valid documentation to be in the country.
During the operation, illicit mining equipment were found abandoned and these include steel balls, motors, and other illicit mining items.
The suspects were charged for Contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa. They are expected to appear at the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical court soon, facing the said charges.
The Detectives are working collaboratively with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain the status of the arrested suspects.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi has welcomed the exceptional work done by the dedicated members assigned for Operation Vala Umgodi as they soldier on thereby bringing good results.
