Macie lauds police in the province for arrests of illegal mining suspects in Mpumalanga

"Illegal mining is not only dangerous for those who are involved in related activities, but it also endangers the lives of communities due to the level of violence by some illegal miners who are often heavily armed. Illegal mining, to a very large extent, also contributes to the proliferation of illegal firearms and ammunition. It must, therefore, be completely eradicated."

This is according to the MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, who was reacting to the latest cases where the police made arrests for illegal mining related offences during Operation Vala Umgodi.

Two suspects, aged 29 and 36, were arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi in Schoemanskloof outside Mbombela this past Friday.

The duo has been charged for contravening the National Environmental Management Act.

They were caught during the Operation Vala Umgodi following a tip-off received by the police.

The team also seized a Ford Ranger LDV, 20 generators, five drill machines, and other equipment that are seemingly used for their criminal activities.

The suspects are expected to appear in court on Monday.

In another development, two men aged 52 and 64 appeared in Carolina Regional Court last Thursday after being arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi at Mooifontein near Carolina on Tuesday.

MEC Jackie Macie says it was encouraging to see the amount of work the police were doing to curb illegal mining in the province.

He says the police must continue working hard to ensure those who are involved, including the kingpins, are made to face the full might of the law.

Meanwhile, the MEC also lauded the team at the Lebombo Border Gate for bringing a suspect who was allegedly caught with drugs with an estimated steet value of over R4 million. He says they should continue in the same vein, considering how these illicit drugs are destroying the well-being of the users and the future of this country.

"We appaluad the team under the leadership of Acting Provincial Comisioaioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi continuing to lay down their lives to protect residents and bringing these daring criminals to book. Let us continue to work together to make our province a safer place for all its residents. Your hard work and dedication do not go unnoticed," Macie added.