Three illegal immigrants appeared in the Graskop Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 29 September, after being arrested during an Operation Vala Umgodi clampdown in the Pilgrim’s Rest area the previous day.

The suspects, identified as Carlos Masinga (51), Machikiyana Gauteng (21) and Kabelo Tau (36), were detained by the Combat and Proactive team while police conducted disruptive operations at Majaks. They were found without valid documentation to be in South Africa.

Illicit mining equipment, including phendukas, steel balls, generators, industrial motors and gas cylinders, was also seized during the operation.

The trio face charges under the Immigration Act and remain in custody. Two suspects will appear in the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court on 8 October, while the third will return to the Graskop Magistrate’s Court on 10 October.