Story by Iyiola Ayomide
Five suspects apprehended for illegal mining and immigration offences
Five suspects have been arrested during separate operations conducted under Operation Vala Umgodi on Monday, 26 May 2025, across the Capricorn, Mopani, and Vhembe Districts.
In the Capricorn District, two men aged 35 and 36 were caught engaging in illegal sand mining in the Sebayeng Policing area. A white Hino truck used to load the sand was confiscated after the suspects failed to produce a valid mining permit.
In separate incidents in the Mopani and Vhembe Districts, three suspects aged between 25 and 40 were apprehended for contravening immigration laws. These arrests took place in the Maake and Malamulele Policing areas.
All five suspects are expected to appear in their respective local Magistrate’s Courts soon. Authorities have confirmed that operations targeting illegal mining and undocumented persons will continue across the province.