Recent operations under Vala Umgodi in the Frances Baard and Namakwa districts of the Northern Cape have led to arrests for illegal mining, immigration contraventions, and drug trafficking
OPERATION Vala Umgodi continues to tighten its grip on illegal mining and other criminal activities in the Frances Baard and Namakwa districts of the Northern Cape.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Merapelo Pilane reported that proactive measures, including stop-and-search operations and disruptive actions in illicit mining hot spots, have led to the recent arrest of seven men, aged between 20 and 42, for contravening immigration laws.
Additionally, a 35-year-old man was apprehended on November 12 for allegedly engaging in illegal mining near the R31 road in Kimberley.
During a joint operation on November 15, the police and Sol Plaatje Municipality security officers conducted compliance inspections at a mining site in Kimberley. These inspections uncovered an illegal water connection to the municipal main line.
In a separate incident, an intelligence-led operation targeted a flat in New Park suspected of drug activity. This led to the confiscation of a significant amount of dagga with an estimated street value of R7,000, along with cash believed to be proceeds of crime. A suspect was arrested on the scene.
Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said that Operation Vala Umgodi remains committed to preventing and combating illicit mining and related criminal activities in the Province. The public is urged to report criminal activities through the MySAPS app or by contacting the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
