In May 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS) intensified its efforts to combat illegal mining across the country through the nationwide Operation Vala Umgodi. The operation resulted in the arrest of 1,775 suspects from various nationalities and the seizure of a substantial amount of weapons, ammunition, and equipment used in illegal mining activities.
Key Achievements and Seizures:
During the operation, SAPS officers confiscated:
- 27 unlicensed firearms
- 827 rounds of ammunition
- 51 vehicles, including sedans, bakkies, trucks, trailers, and excavators
- 380 pendukas (illegal mining tools)
Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi, SAPS national spokesperson, highlighted that the suspects were apprehended for a range of offences, notably illegal mining, murder, attempted murder, possession of explosives, and possession of suspected stolen property. He emphasized that officers deployed across seven provinces also targeted crimes not directly related to illegal mining but that contribute to criminal activities in general.
Regional Highlights of the Operation:
Free State: On May 14, 2025, police at Kudu Old Mine arrested two foreign nationals aged between 33 and 51, seizing 59.40 kg of suspected gold-bearing material. In a separate incident at Merriespruit Crusher Plant, two more foreign nationals aged 36 and 42 were apprehended, with 56.80 kg of gold-bearing material confiscated.
Gauteng: On May 8, police in Krugersdorp arrested 102 suspects at Shaft 9, Mogale Crusher Mine. The suspects faced charges including illegal mining, illegal immigration, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Authorities also seized pendukas, steel balls, firearms, and ammunition.
KwaZulu-Natal: In a dramatic encounter on May 22, two suspected cash-in-transit robbers were fatally wounded during a shootout with Vala Umgodi operatives near Ladysmith. The suspects were wanted in connection with CIT robberies dating back to June 2022.
Limpopo: The operation across five districts led to the arrest of 230 suspects, including 30 directly involved in illegal mining. Of these, 51 were South Africans, while 179 were illegal immigrants, who have since been deported.
Mpumalanga: On May 3, police at Dukes Old Mineshaft in Pilgrim’s Rest rescued four minors aged between 12 and 16 underground during an illegal mining raid. The 12-year-old was taken to a safe location. Additionally, 14 adult suspects were detained, with one charged for possession of explosives, drugs, and illegal mining equipment.
Northern Cape: On May 13, authorities in Port Nolloth arrested two men aged 29 and 35 for possessing unpolished diamonds after intercepting a vehicle believed to be transporting illegal miners and seized a significant quantity of diamonds.
North West: Between May 13 and 19, police in the Bojanala district arrested 91 suspects of various nationalities for violations related to illegal mining and immigration. Equipment such as diesel generators, hammers, jackhammers, shovels, and pendukas were confiscated.
Cumulative Impact:
Since the inception of Operation Vala Umgodi in December 2023, a total of 27,275 suspects have been apprehended nationwide. Authorities have also seized:
- 697 firearms, including imitation guns
- 16,247 rounds of ammunition
About Operation Vala Umgodi:
This initiative represents the government's concerted effort to combat illegal mining activities, safeguard economic growth, and address the root causes of illegal mining. By enforcing the law and removing illegal operators, SAPS aims to protect vital resources and ensure sustainable development across South Africa.
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