A 62-year-old man has been arrested in Elukwatini after police found him in possession of illegal mining equipment during Operation Vala Umgodi.

The multidisciplinary team, known for its intelligence-led approach, conducted a disruptive operation at a farm in the area on Tuesday, 9 September 2025. The suspect was charged with illegal possession of mining equipment and for contravening mining and environmental laws.

The man is scheduled to appear before the Elukwatini Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 10 September 2025.

Police confiscated various illicit mining tools during the operation, including phendukas, generators, steel balls, and other equipment. Authorities say the crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal mining and restore law and order in communities.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the team for their work in tackling the scourge of illegal mining.