Mpumalanga police have intensified operations against illegal mining activities in Pilgrim’s Rest and surrounding areas, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of firearms, explosives and suspected gold-bearing materials.

The crackdown forms part of ongoing disruptive operations conducted by the South African Police Service throughout May 2026.

On 11 May, police arrested two undocumented foreign nationals aged between 21 and 25 in Pilgrim’s Rest. The suspects were allegedly found in possession of gold-bearing material and gold-bearing equipment.

A day later, officers conducting an operation at Kwabokeni arrested a 50-year-old man, identified as Thulani Nonyane, for allegedly violating the Explosives Act after blasting cartridges were discovered.

Further investigations later linked the suspect to unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Police seized a rifle, a pistol and ammunition during the operation. The suspect has since appeared in court.

Police operations continued on 13 May in Elandshoek Ngodwane, where two undocumented suspects were arrested for possession of gold-bearing material and equipment.

On 14 May, seven undocumented foreign nationals aged between 24 and 46 were arrested in Pilgrim’s Rest during another operation targeting illicit mining activities.

Another disruptive operation on 15 May led to the arrest of several suspects aged between 24 and 50. The suspects face charges ranging from possession of gold-bearing material and equipment to contravention of the Immigration Act.

The operation later moved to Mankele in Sudwala, where a 65-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm. Police confiscated a rifle and ammunition.

Meanwhile, on 17 May, police arrested three undocumented suspects aged between 21 and 26 at Majaks Village near Pilgrim’s Rest. Officers also seized suspected gold-processing equipment and chemicals believed to be used in illegal mining operations.

All suspects are expected to appear in various local Magistrates’ Courts soon.

Mpumalanga police said detectives are working closely with the Department of Home Affairs to determine the legal status of undocumented suspects arrested during the operations.

Police have vowed to continue targeting illegal mining networks across the province.