The multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi law-enforcement initiative, involving SAPS combat and proactive teams alongside Immigration officials, remains active in the Namakwa and Frances Baard districts to restrict illegal mining activities.
OPERATION Vala Umgodi continues its efforts to combat illegal mining in the Northern Cape.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Merapelo Pilane reported that the multi-disciplinary operation, which includes SAPS combat and proactive teams as well as Immigration officials, remains active in both the Namakwa and Frances Baard districts, working to restrict the activities of illegal miners.
On Friday, November 1, these teams conducted disruptive actions in the Bontekoe and Nuttabooi mining areas as part of the ongoing Safer Festive Season Operations. This effort also targeted illegal mining camps, resulting in the arrest of four individuals for violations of immigration laws.
The following day, Saturday, November 2, an additional four individuals were apprehended for being in the country unlawfully, bringing the total number of undocumented persons detained to eight, all aged between 24 and 40.
In a separate action, members of the Frances Baard District team received a tip-off regarding a house in Woodburn Street in Greenpoint, Kimberley, suspected of illicit activities. Upon investigation, the 25-year-old owner was allegedly found to be dealing in dagga and producing home-made alcoholic beverages. He was arrested and charged accordingly.
The provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, commended the achievements and progress made in tackling illegal mining and associated crimes in the Northern Cape. She also issued a stern warning to the public, urging them to refrain from harbouring illegal miners.
