OPERATION Vala Umgodi has intensified its efforts to root out illegal mining and associated crimes in the Northern Cape, leading to the arrest of 10 suspects in a recent multi-district crackdown.

The operation, launched on March 12, saw law enforcement officers, alongside the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services, conducting high-visibility patrols, targeted searches, and raids across Kimberley (Frances Baard District) and Port Nolloth (Namakwa District).

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said the co-ordinated efforts resulted in a series of arrests and fines issued for various offences.

In the Frances Baard District, the team pounced on a construction site in Kimberley, apprehending six undocumented individuals. The employer responsible for hiring them was slapped with a R2,500 fine for violating labour regulations. All the undocumented individuals were processed by immigration authorities and are expected to appear in court.

The operation also led to the arrest of two suspects, aged 27 and 41, in connection with stolen property.

Meanwhile, in the Namakwa District, the team acted on intelligence about illegal drug activity at two properties in Port Nolloth. The swift action resulted in the arrest of two suspects, aged 25 and 48, on drug dealing charges.

As part of the crackdown, police officers stationed at vehicle checkpoints issued multiple fines for violations of road traffic regulations, reinforcing law enforcement’s presence on Northern Cape roads.

Sergeant Sam emphasised that Operation Vala Umgodi remains steadfast in its mission to curb illegal mining and related crimes across the province. He urged members of the public to play their part in crime prevention by reporting suspicious activities to the SAPS Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.

All suspects arrested during the operation are expected to appear in the Kimberley and Springbok magistrate’s courts soon.

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