Operation Vala Umgodi has again made a breakthrough after arresting 14 suspects linked to illegal mining on Friday, 09 May 2025.
OPERATION VALA UMGODI ARRESTS 14 SUSPECTS
The suspects, aged between 18 and 57, were arrested in various locations around Dientjie and the Sabie area.
During the operation, illicit mining equipment, including a big generator, was confiscated at Graskop Waterfalls.
The suspects face charges of contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa and possession of dagga.
They are expected to appear at the Dientjie and Sabie Magistrate’s court on Monday, 12 May 2025.
MORE SUSPECTS ARRESTED
In related news, five suspects between the ages of 20 and 42 were arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi at R38 road, Low’s Creek Road on 10 May 2025.
One suspect faced an additional charge of being in possession of gold-bearing materials.
“Members confiscated gold-bearing material and illegal mining equipment, including phendukas, steel balls, and shovels, were found abandoned in the Matsulu area,” read the police statement.
The suspects are expected to appear at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 12 May 2025.
OPERATION SHANELA IN TSHWANE ARRESTS 325 SUSPECTS
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tshwane arrested a total of 325 suspects during Operation Shanela in Hercules and Pretoria West on Saturday, 10 May 2025.
A multi-disciplinary team including the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Gauteng Traffic Police, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, and Community Policing Forums, carried out the operation.
The suspects were arrested for various offenses including 76 gender-based violence-related issues, 14 for assault in domestic violence cases, two murder charges, two counts of attempted murder, 14 armed robbery charges and two rape charges.
Law enforcement teams searched and patrolled 21 identified hotspots and premises, which led to the arrest of one suspect for possession and dealing in drugs, with several sachets containing various substances confiscated.
“[Six] individuals [were] arrested and fined for public drinking and 1 suspect was arrested for possession of suspected stolen property when multiple hand radios were found in his possession without a reasonable explanation,” read the police statement.
The police also inspected 12 liquor establishments, leading to the closure of 3 premises and the seizure of 53,690 ml of alcohol.
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