Seven illegal immigrants arrested in Mpumalanga for illegal mining

[File photo:] An open shaft left by illegal miners

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Mpumalanga police have arrested seven illegal immigrants during Operation Vala Umgodi in Simile township in Sabie. The suspects, aged between 18 and 67, were found in possession of illegal mining equipment, which included Phendukas, gas cylinders, motors, oxygen cylinders and generators.

Mpumalanga Police Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi says the police remain committed to fighting illegal mining activities in the province.

The suspects are expected to appear at the Sabie Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges of contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa.

#sapsMP [ILLEGAL MINING] Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga led to the arrest of 7 suspects on 28/03 in Sabie (Simile). The arrested suspects, aged between 18 and 67, were found to be undocumented foreign nationals. Various #IllegalMining equipment seized. ME… pic.twitter.com/brakWescW9

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 29, 2025