Secunda: Seventeen suspects are expected to appear before the Secunda Magistrate's Court today, charged with offences including contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa, according to Mpumalanga police.

According to South African Government News Agency, the suspects, aged between 26 and 62, were arrested on Friday and are due to appear in court following a successful intelligence-driven operation. The operation was conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) under Operation Vala Umgodi in Secunda.

The individuals face charges related to the possession of gold-bearing material and illegal mining equipment. During the operation, law enforcement officers apprehended the suspects for failing to produce valid documentation allowing them to reside in the country. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts of the police to tackle illicit mining. Additionally, mining equipment was confiscated during the arrests.

The SAPS stated that detectives are collaborating with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to verify the legal status of the arrested individuals. Meanwhile, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, expressed his gratitude to the team for their commendable efforts in curbing illegal mining activities within the province.