DE DEUR. – A multi-disciplinary operation Vala Umgodi in the De Deur policing precinct yielded 30 arrests of undocumented persons.

Vala Umgodi is a national operation implemented in 2023 to combat illegal mining. Members deployed as part of the operation also prevent and combat crimes that are not directly related to illicit mining activities.

Speaking to Ster North, police spokesperson Constable Mampho Mahlomola said the primary objective of this operation was to address and curb any criminality and lawlessness in De Deur policing precincts and to ensure public safety and security.

The arrested suspects include Malawians, Zimbabweans, and a Lesotho national.

Mahlomola added that eight traffic fines worth R3 100 were issued.

Acting station commander Lieutenant Colonel Anver Hammond applauded members for acting swiftly and ensuring the operation’s success. Hammond elaborated on how this kind of operation assists in keeping order and decreases criminality in the area.

The operation carried out in De Deur and surrounding areas including Walkerville, Roshnee, and Rus-Ter-Vaal, was joined by the SANDF, SAPS, and the Midvaal Traffic Department.