Police in Mpumalanga arrested ten suspected illegal miners in Pilgrim’s Rest during Operation Vala Umgodi. All suspects are illegal immigrants and were found with gold-bearing material and tools for illicit mining. They are expected to appear in Graskop Magistrate’s Court soon.
Police conducted a raid in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga, as part of Operation Vala Umgodi, leading to the arrest of ten suspected illegal miners. The operation targeted illicit mining activities in the area.
Police spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed that all the suspects are illegal immigrants. Officers found the group in possession of gold-bearing material and tools used for illegal mining.
The suspects face charges and are scheduled to appear before the Graskop Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
In a related development, Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia called for illegal mining to be formally criminalised. He highlighted a spike in unlawful mining in the North West province, stating that current legislation is insufficient to address the issue decisively and requires amendment.
