A total of 34 suspects, aged between 18 and 68, were apprehended during a law enforcement blitz under Operation Vala Umgodi at Majax Informal Settlement in Pilgrim’s Rest on 20 May 2025.

The arrests were made by a multidisciplinary team comprising members from the SAPS Combat and Proactive Units, Business Against Crime, and Farm Watch. The suspects were cornered during an intelligence-driven operation. Upon failing to provide valid documentation for their presence in the country, all 34 individuals were detained for contravening the Immigration Act.

In addition to the immigration-related arrests, one suspect was found in possession of precious metals and charged accordingly. Another individual was issued a fine for selling counterfeit cigarettes.

Police investigators are working closely with the Department of Home Affairs officials to verify the immigration status of all arrested individuals. These checks are essential to ensure proper legal procedures are followed and identify repeat offenders or links to broader criminal networks.

During the operation, officers seized an array of illicit mining equipment from the scene. Among the confiscated items were phendukas (rotary crushers), gas cylinders, mercury, generators, water pumps, and various motors typically used in illegal mining operations. The scale and nature of the equipment suggest a well-established and organised illegal mining operation in the area.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court on 21 May 2025, facing charges related to immigration violations and illegal mining activities.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the dedicated efforts of the team deployed for Operation Vala Umgodi. He acknowledged the ongoing success of these disruptive operations in curbing illegal mining and the presence of undocumented individuals in the province.

“These arrests are a clear indication of the impact being made through the intelligence-led approach of Operation Vala Umgodi,” said Major General Mkhwanazi. “The presence of illicit mining equipment and counterfeit goods points to a broader network of illegal economic activities. SAPS, alongside other law enforcement and regulatory bodies, will continue to dismantle such operations and restore law and order.”

Operation Vala Umgodi is a province-wide initiative aimed at tackling illegal mining, immigration violations, and related crimes. The operation continues to yield positive results, with more arrests and confiscations anticipated as it intensifies across Mpumalanga.