7 arrested in Ermelo mine raid
7 suspects were arrested in Ermelo after illegal mining tools were found during Operation Vala Umgodi.
ERMELO – Seven suspects, aged between 20 and 33, were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act of South Africa on Sunday.
The arrests were made during Operation Vala Umgodi, which continues to target illegal activities in Mpumalanga.
The combat and proactive team discovered illicit mining equipment at a mine in Ermelo.
This included 10 50kg bags of coal, picks, wheelbarrows and other tools associated with illegal mining activities.
The suspects have been charged with contravening the Immigration Act and appeared in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
The outcome of the court proceedings were not available by the time of going to press.
The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the members involved for their successful efforts during the Vala Umgodi operation.
