The team deployed under Operation Vala Umgodi in Mpumalanga arrested nine (09) suspects yesterday, on 08 May 2025 in two different streets at Ermelo. The arrested suspects aged between 25 and 47 were found to be undocumented foreign nationals.
During Operation Vala Umgodi, the men and women in Blue remain committed to working hard to address illegal mining activities in the province. The astute members from Proactive, Department of Health, Department of labour and Department of Home Affairs conducted a disruptive operation which was productive.
The suspects appeared in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court on charges of contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa and were remanded in custody until Monday, 12 May 2025.
1. Peter Roy (37)
2. Johan Bonogwe (25)
3. Said Imran (30)
4. Danger Seiden (32)
5. Shawon Islam ( 25)
6. Daudul Islam (30)
7. Dines Mahwayo (37)
8. Mike Dinala (26)
9. weng Saixing (47)
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has welcomed the arrests and emphasised that law enforcement agencies will continue with efforts to eradicate illegal mining activities. The general further reassured the public that more achievements are expected as the operation continues.
