Nine illegal immigrants aged between 18 and 33 were apprehended in two separate locations during a targeted crackdown on illegal mining in Mpumalanga. The suspects were arrested on 15 May 2025 in Elandshoek near Nelspruit and the Mashoboto informal settlement in Schoemanskloof, as part of the ongoing Operation Vala Umgodi.

Among the detained individuals, seven face additional charges for possession of suspected illegal mining equipment. Authorities reported that the suspects were operating without valid documentation and were found in areas notorious for illicit mining activities.

The arrests were carried out by the South African Police Service’s Combat and Proactive Policing Units during a disruptive operation aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks that continue to plague the province.

Police confiscated a range of items commonly associated with unauthorised mining operations. These included generators, phendukas (mechanical separators used in gold mining), steel balls, shovels, and other mining tools. The seized equipment is believed to have been used in the extraction of precious metals without the requisite legal permits or environmental oversight.

All nine suspects are expected to appear in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on 16 May 2025. They face charges relating to violations of immigration laws as well as offences under South Africa’s mining legislation.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the arresting officers for their commitment and professionalism.

“This successful operation demonstrates our ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal mining, which poses significant risks not only to the environment and the economy but also to the safety of communities living near these sites,” said Major General Mkhwanazi. “We are determined to root out these activities and bring all offenders to justice.”

Operation Vala Umgodi, which means “close the hole” in isiZulu, is a collaborative, intelligence-driven initiative targeting illegal mining hotspots across South Africa. The programme aims to suppress criminal syndicates, protect critical infrastructure, and maintain law and order in affected regions.

The issue of illegal mining has become a growing concern nationally, with significant losses reported by the mining sector and ongoing environmental degradation in areas where unregulated operations occur.

As the legal process unfolds, authorities continue to urge members of the public to report suspicious activities. SAPS has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Mpumalanga’s communities through visible policing and coordinated enforcement efforts.