Four men appeared at the Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 29 September, following their arrest during a police operation in Elukwatini.

The suspects, aged between 23 and 30, were apprehended on Saturday, 27 September, during Operation Vala Umgodi. Police said the men were found without valid documentation and have been charged under the Immigration Act of South Africa. Illicit mining equipment was also confiscated at the scene.

Those arrested were identified as Orlando Moyana (27), Simon Nyanazane (30), Boniface Antonio (28) and Aaron Johannes Chauke (23).

The four remain in custody and are expected to return to court on Wednesday, 1 October.

Police detectives are working with the Department of Home Affairs to verify the suspects’ immigration status.