11 October 2026
The suspect, along with some of the illegal mining equipment, was found in his possession

The suspect, along with some of the illegal mining equipment, was found in his possession

A 62-year-old man was arrested for illegal possession of mining equipment and for violating mining and environmental laws on Tuesday, September 9.

The suspect, along with some of the illegal mining equipment, was found in his possession The suspect was arrested during a police operation Vala Mgodi targeting illegal mining activities on a farm in the Elukwatini area.

According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane, the team was conducting disruptive duties when they found the suspect in possession of illegal mining equipment.

He now faces charges for the illegal possession of mining equipment and for violating mining and environmental laws.

During the operation, authorities confiscated several items used in illicit mining, including phendukas, generators, and steel balls.

The arrest is a part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and to maintain law and order in local communities. The suspect is scheduled to appear at the Elukwatini Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.