A 43-year-old suspect was arrested by the combat team, deployed for Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga on Saturday, 15 March 2025.
The team conducted an intelligence driven operation at the industrial side in Delmas after receiving information about illicit mining activities taking place in that area.
Upon arrival at the place, illegal mining equipment were found such as big phendukas and other illicit mining equipment.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the owner of the shop is processing gold and the team confiscated a lot of equipment at the shop.
The suspect is expected to appear at the Delmas Magistrate’s court on Monday, 17 March 2025.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi is forever grateful for the exceptional work done by dedicated members assigned for Operation Vala Umgodi as they soldier on thereby bringing results.
Operation Vala Umgodi nets a suspect for possession of gold-bearing material and equipment https://t.co/xR48xBX9MT#ArriveAlive #TrioCrimes #IllegalMining @SAPoliceService @TruckAndFreight pic.twitter.com/6MVCmE6hiQ
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) March 17, 2025
