The multidisciplinary operation Vala Umgodi continues to make good progress in the Free State Province. Combat operators team received a #TipOff from the community about #IllegalMining activities at the address in Putswa-stene Section, Thabong near Welkom.
The team tactically pounced on the target and found three gold nuggets weighing 10.50 grams. The operators also seized gold bearing material and gold processing equipment. A 36-year-old suspect was immediately placed under arrest on charges of possession of unwrought precious metals, possession of suspected gold bearing material and gold processing equipment.
Tip-off leads to illegal mining arrest in Putswa-stene Section, Thabong near Welkom. https://t.co/cmRVHDXBZ4#ArriveAlive #IllegalMining @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/BGvUg3v4Fl
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) May 16, 2025
