Charles Esther
An illegal miner was shot and arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS) during a raid in Simile Township, Mpumalanga.
The incident occurred in the Nkanini Section of Sabie, where police executed a targeted operation under the banner of Operation Vala Umgodi.
The arrest followed a tip-off that revealed a group of foreign nationals, also known as Zama Zamas, were refining gold and selling mercury illegally.
Police moved quickly on the information and approached the address provided by the informant.
Their arrival sparked a violent confrontation, leading to gunfire from the suspects and a swift police response.
This marks a significant event in the broader context of Operation Vala Umgodi, aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks.
Illegal Miner Shot and Placed Under Arrest
Upon reaching the location, officers encountered three individuals believed to be involved in illegal mining activities.
Without warning, the suspects opened fire on the officers and attempted to flee the scene.
Police responded immediately, shooting one suspect in the right thigh before taking him into custody.
The wounded suspect, a 30-year-old believed to be from Mozambique, was rushed to Sabie Hospital under police guard.
He has since been discharged and remains in custody while awaiting legal proceedings.
The two remaining suspects managed to escape and are still at large.
Charges Against the Arrested Suspect
The arrested man now faces multiple charges under South African law.
These include possession of gold-bearing material, possession of illegal mining equipment, attempted murder, and being an undocumented immigrant.
His first court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday, 17 June 2025, at the Sabie Magistrate’s Court.
Authorities believe the charges reflect the severity of the offenses and the risk posed by illegal mining operations.
Efforts are ongoing to track down the two fleeing suspects involved in the incident.
SAPS Commends Public for Assisting in Arrest
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrest.
He expressed gratitude to the local community for providing the information that led to the operation.
“Illegal mining continues to threaten our economy and public safety,” said Mkhwanazi.
He added that SAPS would not hesitate to bring offenders to justice through continued operations like Vala Umgodi.
The cooperation between citizens and law enforcement remains key to combating organized illegal activities.
Separate Shooting in Tsineng Leaves Two Dead
In a separate incident, SAPS reported a fatal shooting in Tsineng, near Kimberley, on Saturday, 14 June 2025.
According to police, six suspects allegedly tried to break into a tuck shop between Ganap and Laxey Village.
Community members intervened, prompting the suspects to flee the scene.
During the escape, one suspect reportedly hijacked a vehicle and shot the 38-year-old driver and a passenger.
The passenger died at the scene, while the driver later passed away at the hospital.
Arrests Made in Tsineng Following the Shooting
An intense police search led to the arrest of three suspects in Mothibistad.
Authorities have not ruled out additional arrests as the investigation continues.
This incident further highlights the dangers posed by violent criminal elements operating in rural communities.
Police have encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.
Efforts to bring all involved to justice are underway, with SAPS reinforcing its commitment to public safety.
Operation Vala Umgodi Remains Active
Operation Vala Umgodi continues to be a major initiative by SAPS to combat illegal mining across South Africa.
The recent arrest in Simile Township adds to a growing list of successful raids and crackdowns.
Law enforcement agencies are expanding surveillance and community partnerships to track illegal operations.
Public cooperation is a vital component of these successes.
Residents are encouraged to report crimes by contacting local authorities or using SAPS-provided hotlines.
