The South African Police Service (SAPS) Gauteng’s illicit mining “Vala Umgodi” members, conducted a successful operation on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, at Protea mine in Magaliesburg. The operation resulted in the arrest of 40 suspects for illegal mining, illegal immigration, possession of firearms and ammunition and possession of explosives.
The confiscated items includes: firearms and ammunition, explosives, illegal mining equipment, such as generators, drills, phendukas, and other machinery used for illicit mining activities.
The Vala Umgodi members remains committed to disrupting and dismantling illicit activities in the Gauteng Province, ensuring the safety and security of communities.
SAPS Gauteng Vala Umgodi Operation yields success with 40 arrests in Magaliesburghttps://t.co/kTprswOHRE#ArriveAlive #IllegalMining #Explosives @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/FUOnounaBn
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) May 21, 2025
