Marti Will
Operation Vala uMgodi continues to hit hard at illegal mining operations in the Goldfields, with eight suspected illegal miners arrested during intensive operations over the Easter weekend.
The suspects have also been charged with contravention of the Immigration Act.
On Sunday, 20 April, the team conducted various operational concepts, including foot, vehicle, air-to-ground drone patrols and stop-and-search operations in Riebeeckstad, Phomolong, Rheederpark, Welkom, Mahlaranghleng, Allanridge, and G-Hostel in Thabong, Extension 4.
Five suspects were arrested for illegal mining activities. The police confiscated four 19kg oxygen cylinders, three 9kg gas bottles, green-red-brown connector pipes, cutting torches and nozzles, steel plates, a galvanised steel drum, strainers and crucible pots.
The police also seized 45.76kg of gold bearing material.
“Cases of possession of suspected gold-bearing material, gold-processing equipment with an additional charge of contravention of the Immigration Act were opened at the Welkom, Thabong and Allanridge police stations,” says Lt Col Thabo Covane, police spokesperson.
On Friday, 18 April, three suspected illegal miners were arrested in Welkom and gold-bearing material and equipment was seized.
Operation Vala uMgodi continues to record commendable progress in dismantling illegal mining activities
“Operation Vala uMgodi continues to record commendable progress in dismantling illegal mining activities, The team comprised of members from the Vala Umgodi Mission Area Joint Operational Centre (MAJOC) and the Free State Tactical Joint Operational Centre (TACJOC).
Since its inception in December 2023, Vala Umgodi has led to the arrest of more than 20 000 suspects, and more than 600 firearms (which include imitation firearms) and 14 000 rounds of ammunition were seized.
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