Members of the Police, through #OperationShanela, arrested two undocumented foreign nationals for illegal possession of suspected illicit gold valued at approximately R3 million. The two were nabbed in the Pilgrim’s Rest policing area during the course of the week.
An intelligence-driven operation was executed by members of the Tactical Response Team (TRT) between 22h45 on 25 February 2026 and 07h00 on 26 February 2026 within the Ehlanzeni District. The information was followed regarding foreign nationals reportedly involved in some criminal activities in Pilgrim’s Rest.
Upon arrival, members conducted a search and it was during this time when they discovered six bags containing approximately 90% processed gold and Police confiscated the items.
Two Mozambican nationals, both aged 25, were then arrested on charges of possession of illegal possession of precious metals, as well as for Contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa. In this case,
Detectives are working collaboratively with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain the status of the two foreign nationals.
The suspects appeared in the Graskop Magistrate’s Court, on Friday, 27 February 2026 and they are expected to appear again at the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court on 04 March 2026 meanwhile the two remain in custody.
