By REGINALD KANYANE
3 August 2025- A total of 18 suspects were arrested for illegal mining and contraventions of immigration laws. The operations were executed in collaboration with private security companies, the Department of Home Affairs and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA).
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said a multi-disciplinary Operation Vala Umgodi team in the Northern Cape will continue to intensify efforts to combat and dismantle criminal activities across the province. Merapelo said the suspects were arrested by the pro-active and combat teams in the Namakwa and Frances Baard Districts.
“During the early hours of Friday, 1 August 2025, the Namakwa District team received intelligence regarding illegal mining activities at a mine near the Kleinzee area. The area was tactically approached with assistance from private security personnel, resulting in the arrest of seven men aged between 19 and 39.
“Members also confiscated suspected diamond-bearing gravel and a light delivery vehicle believed to have been used in the commission of a crime. In a separate incident in the Frances Baard District, teams responded to information provided by a mine security company about illegal mining activities at a privately controlled mine near Kennelworth Camp in Kimberley,” he said.
Merapelo further said a man (41) was caught in the act and arrested. He added that mining tools were also confiscated on the scene.
“On 30 July 2025, a joint operation involving the Department of Home Affairs, the Immigration Unit and PSiRA was conducted in Kimberley. Intelligence led members to several businesses suspected of employing undocumented foreign nationals as security guards. The affected businesses were raided, resulting in the arrest of ten individuals aged between 22 and 39, for immigration-related offences.
“Furthermore, four persons were issued with fines for non-compliance with PSiRA regulations. All suspects have been charged accordingly and will appear in court soon. Investigations are ongoing.
“Operation Vala Umgodi remains committed to the eradication of illegal mining and all forms of related criminality in the province. The public is urged to report any suspicious criminal activity via the MySAPS App or by contacting Crime Stop at 08600 10111,” said Merapelo.
The Guardian 