By Staff Reporter
Mbombela: – In a decisive move against illegal immigration, law enforcement officials arrested 16 foreign nationals during Operation Vala Umgodi in the Diggings area of Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga, on July 20, 2025. The suspects, whose ages range from 18 to 42, were found without valid documentation, resulting in charges for violating the Immigration Act of South Africa.
The arrests were part of a larger initiative aimed at curbing illegal mining activities in the region, a problem that has attracted increasing attention from local authorities. During the operation, police also discovered an abandoned generator equipped with a water pump, indicating possible links to unlawful mining activities in the area.
Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, expressed his gratitude to the law enforcement teams involved in the operation. “I commend our officers for their dedication and hard work in addressing illegal activities in the province. The arrest of these individuals underscores our commitment to upholding the law and maintaining order. We will continue to work closely with the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that justice is served,” he stated.
Following their arrest, the suspects have been charged and are set to appear in court at the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court today, July 21, 2025. The police are collaborating with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to investigate the immigration status of the apprehended individuals further.
This operation is part of ongoing efforts by the SAPS to address not only illegal immigration but also its associated challenges, particularly in areas affected by illegal mining. Authorities remind the public that operations like these are vital in combating crime and ensuring the safety of communities across the province.
Leave a comment