Watch: Over 1 000 arrested in Barberton illegal mining crackdown, including minors
Lowvelder reports that the arrests followed a crackdown launched on Monday, July 28, under the banner of Operation Vala Umgodi.
Many of those taken into custody are reportedly young children.
According to provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the arrests were the result of a joint effort by the National Roving Team, K9 Unit, Vukalanga Security and members of the Combat and Proactive team.
'The operation was co-ordinated and carried out successfully. Pressure from law enforcement agencies disrupted the illegal mining activities and forced the suspects to resurface,' he said.
Foreign nationals without valid documentation
Mdhluli added that initial investigations indicate many of the suspects are foreign nationals without valid documentation, and a significant number appear to be underage.
Ongoing investigations are being carried out in collaboration with officials of the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, the National Prosecuting Authority and other law enforcement agencies.
Mdhluli said the nationalities of those arrested are still being confirmed.
The suspects are expected to be charged with contravening the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, as well as offences related to illegal mining and trespassing. Additional charges may follow as investigations continue.
Arrests welcomed
The arrests were welcomed by Mpumalanga's MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, who said the operation highlights government's commitment to fighting crime.
According to Macie, the unauthorised entry of people into the country negatively affects the safety and security of communities. He added that investigating crimes involving undocumented foreign nationals presents significant challenges.
'The movement of illegal immigrants contributes to a rise in undetected crime. I acknowledge the devastating impact of illegal mining and its long-term effects on the environment,' he said.
'We welcome the efforts of the police and all roleplayers involved in Friday's operation. However, we also urge police to go after those directing illegal mining operations. Communities should refrain from harbouring zama zamas and report them to the police,' he concluded.
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