The Operation Vala uMgodi team arrested fourteen undocumented individuals, aged between 18 and 41, during a series of disruptive policing actions targeting illegal mining in Allanridge, Meloding, and the Rathaba Hostel.
The team conducted foot, vehicle, and air-to-ground drone patrols at the Allanridge Rock Dam, Calabria in Meloding, and at a known hostel location. During the operation, officers seized 417.66 kilograms of gold-bearing material, along with various items used in gold processing.
Additionally, the team received information regarding the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. Acting on this tip-off, they conducted a search at a house in Hani Park, Bronville, where they recovered sixteen live 9mm ammunition rounds.
