Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) have arrested a 33-year-old man during Operation Vala Umgodi in Witbank, following a successful stop-and-search near a mine on Wednesday, 18 September 2025.

The suspect was driving a Ford Ranger with Limpopo registration plates when officers stopped the vehicle. Upon inspection, police discovered 10 bags of coal. The man was unable to produce proof of ownership or explain how he had obtained the coal.

The suspect was immediately arrested, and both the vehicle and the coal were confiscated. He is expected to appear before the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court today, Friday, 19 September 2025.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the officers involved. “We welcome the exceptional work done by our dedicated members under Operation Vala Umgodi,” he said.

Operation Vala Umgodi is an ongoing initiative targeting illegal mining and related criminal activities in the province. Police have urged the public to continue providing tip-offs, assuring communities that such information helps in curbing crime and protecting natural resources.