Two men suspected of involvement in illegal mining activities were arrested at Slaaihoek near Machadodorp during a police operation conducted under Operation Vala Umgodi on Sunday, 12 October 2025.
The suspects, aged between 20 and 28, were found to be in South Africa without valid documentation and were immediately charged under the Immigration Act. Their arrest comes as part of broader efforts by law enforcement to tackle illegal mining and associated crimes in Mpumalanga.
During the operation, police seized a generator, shovels and a variety of beverages believed to have been used at the illegal mining site. The confiscations form part of the SAPS’s continued drive to disrupt illegal mining networks in the province.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Belfast Magistrate’s Court soon. Police detectives are working alongside officials from the Department of Home Affairs to confirm the immigration status of the individuals involved.
