Free State Police Cracks Down On Illegal Mining: Operation Vala Umgodi

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

The Free State police launched Operation Vala Umgodi to combat the growing menace of illegal mining.
In collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, they aim to dismantle illicit activities endangering local communities.
Nine suspects, including four foreigners, two of whom had undocumented status, were apprehended in the past week.
According to Lt-Col Thabo Covane, these illegal activities pose significant threats to both communities and those involved in such dangerous operations.

The Free State police are stepping up efforts to eradicate illegal mining. Image source: Free State SAPS

BLOEMFONTEIN — In a bold move to clean up the province, the Free State police have intensified their campaign against illegal miners, commonly referred to as Zama Zamas. Operation Vala Umgodi, a multi-phase initiative, has entered a crucial stage, yielding promising results in the fight against these illicit activities.

This comprehensive, multi-agency strategy has identified key hotspots of illegal mining across South Africa, including significant areas within the Free State. The operation is designed to address not just the immediate threats posed by illegal mining but also the broader implications for the country's economy and environment.

Free State Police Take a Stand Against Illegal Miners

Lt-Col Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the Bloemfontein police, shared in a statement to Briefly News that this operation is a direct response to the growing challenge posed by illegal mining. Organized crime groups have been exploiting the mining industry, leading to significant losses and dangers for communities nearby.

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Covane emphasized that the illegal activities endanger not only the communities surrounding mining areas but also the miners themselves, who often operate under hazardous conditions. "These operations are not just about securing the mines; they're about protecting lives," Covane stated.

"Operation Vala Umgosi brings together key players such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Defense Force (SANDF), Department of Home Affairs, and other vital stakeholders in law enforcement," Covane explained.

The operation leverages intelligence to target specific areas known for illegal mining activities, including:

Hijacked properties used as bases for illegal operations;
Deserted open shafts that pose significant safety risks;
Informal settlements and hostels where illegal miners often reside;
National and provincial roads frequently used for transporting stolen materials;
Border regions near neighboring countries, where illegal activities often cross international lines.

According to Covane, the past week saw the arrest of nine suspects across various parts of the province. Among them were six individuals, two of whom were undocumented, caught trespassing on a mining site and possessing suspected gold-bearing materials. The crackdown also included arrests for corruption, violations of mine health and safety regulations, and conspiracy to commit crimes.

"One suspect was arrested for contravening the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, violating the Mine Health and Safety Act, and conspiring to commit a crime," Covane reported.

"During a routine roadblock along the provincial border, an operational team stopped and searched a silver Isuzu single cab. Inside, they found two men, aged 42 and 43, in possession of suspected stolen livestock: 52 live sheep valued at approximately R132,000 and five goats worth around R8,000. Both men were arrested," Covane added.

All arrested suspects are set to appear in court shortly, where they will face charges related to their involvement in these illegal activities.

Lesotho Nationals Flee Market During Interpol Operation

Meanwhile, in another development, Briefly News reported on a video that surfaced online showing a deserted informal trade market in Bloemfontein. The clip captures the aftermath of a law enforcement operation that led to street vendors, reportedly Lesotho nationals, fleeing the area and leaving behind their goods.

The video shows several abandoned fruit and vegetable stalls lining the street, highlighting the dramatic impact of the police intervention. While the operation aimed to address broader security concerns, it also sheds light on the challenges faced by informal traders operating in such environments.