Two suspects aged between 38 and 42 were arrested in the Barberton area on Thursday, July 17, during a Vala Umgodi operation.

The suspects were apprehended by members of the National Roving and K9 Unit during a disruptive operation in the area.

During the operation, illicit mining equipment was confiscated, including phendukas (a rotating drum used to crush mineral-bearing ore), wheelbarrows, steel balls, gold-bearing material and other equipment often used in illegal mining activities.

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Investigators are working with officials of the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain the status of the arrested suspects.

The two are expected to appear in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court soon, facing charges relating to the contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa, possession of gold processing equipment and possession of gold-bearing material.

The acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, expressed his appreciation to the members for their relentless efforts in tackling illegal mining activities.