Free State Vala Umgodi teams continue their fight against drug trafficking and illicit mining
Date Published:
2025/08/15
Description Details:

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Free State


​FREE STATE - The Vala Umgodi teams in the Free State continue their relentless fight against drug trafficking, illicit mining, and illegal immigration, with a series of successful operations across the province on Thursday, 14 August 2025.

​At approximately 13:15, proactive and combat members acted on intelligence-led information regarding a woman suspected of selling drugs in Odendaalsrus. The teams descended on a block of flats in Stain Street, where they conducted a search on a 46-year-old African woman, a known street vendor. The search uncovered a stash of Mandrax pills, Crystal Meth, and a black digital scale. The woman was arrested for possession of drugs.

​The teams proceeded to Theunissen, where they surprised a 34-year-old illegal foreign national engaged in illicit mining activities on mine premises. The suspect was arrested after being found in possession of gold-bearing material and instruments used in the illegal mining operation.

​Later, while on patrol in Ventersburg, a 29-year-old foreign national was found on the N1 hitchhiking to Cape Town. It was discovered that the individual did not possess any form of immigration identification or documentation, leading to his arrest.

​In Virginia, the team conducted a counterfeit goods inspection in the Meloding area. At a tuckshop, they encountered a 21-year-old foreign national who, upon inquiry, was found not to possess proper immigration documents. He was arrested for contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, Section 49.

​The swift and decisive actions of the Vala Umgodi teams highlights their commitment to eradicating criminal activities that threaten the safety and well-being of Free State communities. The fight against drug trafficking, illicit mining, and illegal immigration remains a top priority.

Ends

Enquiries:
Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli
082 527 6634

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