Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Limpopo

POLOKWANE - A coordinated disruptive operation in the Malamulele policing area led to the arrest of two foreign male suspects and the seizure of illegal mining equipment on Wednesday, 13 May 2026.

At about 11:00, police were on duty when they received information about a group of undocumented foreign nationals busy conducting illegal mining activities at the Muchipisi village, Muchiiisi mine.

Police responded swiftly and conducted an operation at the identified site. Two male suspects aged 29 and 32 and both Zimbabwean nationals were arrested.

Furthermore, various mining equipment estimated at R20,000 was confiscated at the scene during the arrest.

The successful operation was a result of joint efforts by:

1. Malamulele police,
2. Thohoyandou Public Order Policing (POPS),
3. Giyani and Malamulele Home Affairs,
4. Thohoyandou and Mopani Tactical Response Team (TRT),
5. Giyani Dog Unit (K9),
6. Limpopo Highway Patrol  (LHP),
7. Department of Minerals and Energy (DMR),
8. Mopani Tracking Task Team,

The duo are expected to appear before the Malamulele Magistrate court soon facing charges of Contravention of the Precious Metals Act and Contravention of the Immigration Act.

The Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo Lieutenant, General Thembi Hadebe has stated that police reiterate its commitment to clamping down on illegal mining activities through multi-agency collaboration that was displayed at Malamulele policing area.

Police investigations are continuing.
End

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Colonel Malesela Ledwaba 
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