South Africa: Nine Mozambicans Arrested for Illegal Mining

The arrests took place over the weekend as part of Operation “Vala Umgodi”, an initiative launched by South African authorities in December 2023 to combat illegal mining and other forms of organised crime in several parts of the country.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Donald Mdhluli, cited by Rádio Moçambique, the suspects were found operating at an abandoned mine following an intelligence-led investigation by law enforcement authorities.

During the operation, police seized various items allegedly linked to the illegal mining activities, including pickaxes, mining tools and chemicals used in the processing and refining of gold.

The nine Mozambicans are facing charges related to illegal mining and possession of gold-bearing material.

South African authorities are also expected to refer the suspects to immigration officials to verify the legality of their stay in the country.

The detainees are due to appear in court to face charges linked to illegal mining and possession of materials associated with gold extraction.

Operation “Vala Umgodi” has been used by South African authorities to intensify efforts against illegal mining, particularly around abandoned mining sites that are often associated with clandestine mineral extraction activities.