Five people, aged between 19 and 25, were apprehended in Middleburg during Operation Vala Umgodi for allegedly contravening South Africa’s Immigration Act.
According to Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, the suspects were caught by the Combat and Proactive team during routine stop-and-search operations at the Middleburg Toll Plaza.

Officers stopped a grey Toyota Quantum, bearing Mozambican registration plates and transporting commuters.

The individuals were unable to produce valid documentation permitting their stay in South Africa, leading to their arrest.

All five suspects have been formally charged and are expected to appear before the Witbank Magistrate’s Court soon.

The acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the officers involved, highlighting the success and importance of Operation Vala Umgodi in maintaining law and order within the province.

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