By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

24 August 2025 – Three suspects aged between 26 and 52 were arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi. The police in Northern Cape confiscated substances such as suspected Tik and Mandrax.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Merapelo Pilane said Operation Vala Umgodi in the province will continue to assert the authority of the state through various crime-fighting initiatives, conducted between 18 and 23 August 2025, in an effort to maintain law and order. Pilane said the police combat and proactive teams in the Namakwa and Frances Baard Districts conducted Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), regular patrols at illegal mining hot spots, and compliance inspections at mining sites.

“In the Frances Baard District, police received intelligence on illegal drug-dealing activities in Barkly West and Kimberley. Suspected premises were raided, and during searches, drugs were discovered hidden in different locations inside the houses with the assistance of SAPS narcotics K9.

“In a separate incident, the vigilance of Vala Umgodi members led to the arrest of two men for violations of immigration laws. The suspects attempted to flee from an approaching police vehicle but were swiftly cornered and apprehended,” he said.

Pilane further said earlier in the week on 20 August 2025, teams in the Namakwa District arrested 15 individuals aged between 34 and 44, in Nuttaboi, Kleinzee, for contravening immigration laws. He added that all arrested suspects are expected to appear in courts soon, while investigations continue.

“Operation Vala Umgodi remains steadfast in its mandate to combat illicit mining and curb criminality across the province. The public is encouraged to play an active role in the fight against crime by reporting any criminal activities via the MySAPS App or Crime Stop at 08600 10111,” said Pilane.

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