The Vala Umgodi multidisciplinary operation conducted in the Letsitele policing area under Mopani District on Friday, 27 December 2024 led to the arrest of three suspects for illegal mining and the recovery of mining equipment.
The operation was led by the Tactical Joint Operational Centre (TACJOC) Commanders comprising overall Commander Colonel David Malisa, Operational Commander Colonel Choene Magwai, Combat Commander Lieutenant Colonel Orapeleng Motecwane, Crime Intelligence Commander Lieutenant Colonel Takalani Ramatsea, LCRC Commander Captain Mudau, Drone Pilot Captain Willeminah Monareng as well as Proactive Commander Warrant Officer Anthony Singani and Media Relations and Liaison Officer Sergeant Maphure Maphure Manamela, supported by the Mopani District Task Team under the leadership of Captain Siddy Mathebula.
The additional forces including members of South African National Defence Force conducted an extensive operation around the Molati illegal mining sites within Letsitele policing precinct, covering the mountains and rivers and culminated in the arrest of three suspects, including one undocumented foreign national aged between 17 and 53 for mining precious minerals (suspected gold).
The following items were confiscated during the operation:
02 x Blanket
01 x Homemade panga
01 x Home made crape hoe
01 x Pocket knife
02 x Shovel
01 x Pik
01 x Bread crate
01 x Plastic basin
01 towel
In addition, about 5kg plastic containing presumed precious minerals (suspected gold) was recovered.
The suspects are expected to appear before the local Magistrate’s Court on 30 December 2024 facing charges of illegal mining and Contravention of the Immigration Act.