Fourteen suspects, aged between 18 and 47, were arrested on Saturday, 3 May 2025, during a targeted Operation Vala Umgodi raid at Duke’s Old Mineshaft in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga.
Among the arrested, three suspects face additional charges for possession of illegal mining equipment, while one individual was charged with possession of explosives, illegal mining tools, and dagga (cannabis).
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In a concerning development, four minors, aged between 12 and 16, were discovered inside the abandoned mineshaft. A 12-year-old boy was immediately placed in the care of a place of safety.
The operation, led by members of the Combat and Proactive Unit along with the Majoc Roving Team, resulted in the confiscation of a significant quantity of illegal items. Seized goods included:
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Generators
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Electric motors
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Shovels
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Jackhammers
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Explosives
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56 small packets of dagga
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Various illegal mining tools
The suspects are scheduled to appear before the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court on Monday, 5 May 2025, to face multiple charges, including those related to illegal mining, possession of explosives, and drug-related offenses.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the teams involved, praising their diligence and commitment to disrupting illegal mining operations in the province.
“The successful execution of Operation Vala Umgodi is a clear sign that we are determined to protect our communities and our natural resources,” said Major General Mkhwanazi.
Operation Vala Umgodi
This is a multidisciplinary, anti-crime initiative launched by the South African government to combat illegal mining and related criminal activities across the country. The name “Vala Umgodi” means “close the hole”, symbolising the government’s commitment to sealing off illegal mining operations and protecting South Africa’s mineral resources and communities.
Source – Arrive Alive