An intelligence-driven operation led to the arrest of four foreign nationals involved in illegal mining activities. On 17 September 2024, two Mozambican nationals, aged 23 and 29, were apprehended in Pilgrim’s Rest after police received information about illegal mining in the river of the tourist town.

On 18 September 2024, two undocumented Zimbabwean nationals, aged 25 and 42, were arrested at a nature reserve. Police, in collaboration with Field Rangers, responded to reports of illegal mining. While the larger group of miners fled into the bushes upon their arrival, the two suspects were cornered and detained.

Illegal mining equipment and gold-bearing materials were confiscated at the nature reserve site. The police are now working with the Department of Home Affairs to confirm the status of the four arrested foreign nationals. Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi emphasized that the police will continue to monitor and disrupt illegal mining activities. “We are committed to addressing illegal mining and its environmental impact,” said General Mkhwanazi