On July 29, 2025, the Mopani District Vala Umgodi Tast Team conducted a targeted operation resulting in the arrest of a suspect involved in illegal mining activities at Skyding Farm.
At around 01:00, the team encountered a group of individuals actively engaged in illegal mining and processing of precious minerals. Upon noticing the police presence, the suspects attempted to flee the scene. The officers pursued them and successfully apprehended a 23-year-old male suspect for illegal mining and illegal immigration.
During the arrest, the police confiscated several items believed to be used in illegal mining operations, including two shovels, two iron digging tools, three steel drums, five bags of soil, a sand shaker, and a black dish.
The South African Police Service reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fighting illegal mining activities and to protecting our environment and communities from unlawful activities.