Limpopo: The continuous efforts displayed by members deployed at Operation Vala Umgodi in Limpopo resulted in the arrest of sixteen (16) suspects aged between 19 and 65 for charges of illegal mining and contravention of immigration act, at the Sekhukhune, Waterberg, Mopani and Capricorn Districts, on Thursday, 01 May 2025.
According to South African Police Service, a 32-year-old male suspect was arrested at Maake Policing area, in Mopani district, after he was found loading sand in a white UD truck, and upon approaching him, he failed to produce a mining permit. Police seized the truck, 2x shovels, and 1x pickaxe.
In Capricorn district, three suspects aged between 21 and 38 were also nabbed for illegal mining of sand at Tudumo River, in Mogodi Village at Lebowakgomo Policing area. A truck and 07x shovels were confiscated during the arrest.
In another incident, that occurred at Waterberg district, the members conducted a disruptive operation at Mahwelereng Tshamahansi village. They noticed trucks busy loading sand. Upon approaching, a mining permit was not available. A 65-year-old suspect was arrested.
Moreover, in the Sekhukhune district, Police arrested ten (10) suspects aged between 19 and 42 for illegal immigrants during operations conducted at the Marble Hall Policing area. Meanwhile, one illegal immigrant was arrested at Maake Policing area.
Police investigations are continuing.