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

NELSPRUIT - The members deployed under Operation Vala Umgodi continue to make significant progress in addressing illegal mining activities. In the latest success, eight undocumented persons were arrested on Thursday, 14 August 2025, during a stop-and-searches operation conducted along the N4 Road near a Mall.

The suspects, aged between 22 and 34, were apprehended after failing to produce valid documentation, permitting them to be in South Africa. They have been charged with contravention of the Immigration Act. 

The suspects are expected to appear before the Emalahleni Magistrate's Court on Monday, 18 August 2025

The police Detectives are working collaboratively with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain the status of the arrested suspects.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi continues to appreciate the work done by the team members assigned for Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga.

Ends

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