The Free State multidisciplinary approach Operation Vala Umgodi continues to make progress on issues of illegal mining while cleaning streets in the Lejweleputswa and Fezile Dabi districts.
From 6 to 12 May more than 59 illegal immigrants were arrested for crimes such as possession of gold-bearing material, dealing in drugs and illegal mining.
On 11 May, a 44-year-old man was arrested in Meloding after he tried to bribe police officials to release him. The bribe money was seized and he was arrested for corruption and contravention of the Immigrant Act.
On 12 May, police officials received a tip-off about an illegal mining operation that is continuing behind a hostel in Thabong. On arrival, members discovered abandoned illegal mining operation equipment.
As part of this operation, roadblocks are conducted daily at hotspots.
The police also wants to laud the assistance received from community members in the form of information on criminal activities throughout the Lejweleputswa district.
Patrol operations continue in areas such as Welkom, Viljoenskroon, Thabong, Vierfontein, Bothaville, Wesselsbron, Virginia and Allanridge.
Disruptive operations are also done throughput the week, and 1 008 people were searched while 222 vehicles were checked during the sporadic vehicle checkpoints held in and around Lejweleputswa.
Operation Vala Umgodi continues and the arrested suspects will appear in court in the respective areas of detention.
