A 30-year-old suspect was arrested on 12 July 2025, in the Witbank area during Operation Vala Umgodi, a law enforcement initiative targeting illegal activities in Mpumalanga.

Acting on a tip-off, the combat team deployed under the operation raided a house on Jellico Street. Inside, they discovered approximately 35 packets of drugs valued at around R1,000, dagga, and an undisclosed amount of cash.

The suspect, who was also found to be in the country without proper documentation, was charged with illegal possession of drugs and for contravening the Immigration Act of South Africa.

He is expected to appear at the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court on 14 July 2025, to face the charges.