A multidisciplinary disruptive operation conducted on Thursday, 21 May 2026, in the Bagdacht and Slaaihoek areas near Waterval Boven, as well as in Pilgrim’s Rest, led to the arrest of sixteen suspects linked to illegal mining activities.
The suspects, aged between 19 and 46, were arrested for contraventions of South Africa’s Immigration Act. Additional charges include possession of gold-bearing material (GBM) and possession of gold-bearing equipment (GBE).
Authorities also confiscated various items believed to have been used in illegal mining operations, including pendukas and generators.
The arrested individuals are expected to appear soon at the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court.
Detectives are working collaboratively with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to determine the immigration status of the suspects, who are also suspected to be undocumented immigrants.
The operation forms part of ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat illegal mining and related criminal activities within the province. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations aimed at eradicating illegal mining and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.