KEY POINTS
- 33 illegal miners arrested in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga, during a police operation.
- Mining equipment seized, confirming ongoing illegal mining activities.
- Employers fined R68,000 ($3,684) for hiring undocumented foreign workers.
At least 33 illegal immigrants, suspected of being involved in illegal mining operations, have been arrested in Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga during a law enforcement sweep known as Operation Vala Umgodi.
A multi-agency task force conducted the operation which led to the arrest of 28 men and 5 women within the age range from 18 to 45.
Authorities seized various mining tools and equipment, which provided strong evidence of their suspected activities.
Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed that officers confiscated 11 phendukas, four generators, seven gas cylinders, a 1,000-liter water tank, two motors, two cutting torches, and other tools including a water pump, spades, shovels, an electrical cable, a jackhammer, and a pilot gun.
“These arrests were made while law enforcement agencies were carrying out a disruptive operation in the Pilgrim’s Rest area.
The astute work of our officers led to the discovery of mining equipment, pointing to ongoing illegal mining activities,” said Mdhluli.
Court appearances and further investigations
The suspects appeared in the Graskop Magistrate’s Court on Monday, but the case has been postponed to March 7, 10, and 13, 2025, due to ongoing investigations and the need to verify the ages of the arrested individuals.
According to IOL, authorities have also cited court space limitations as another reason for the staggered hearing dates.
“The postponements will help investigators gather more details while also preventing overcrowding in courtrooms,” Mdhluli explained.
Employers fined for hiring illegal workers
The Department of Employment and Labour (DEL) fined 38 employers R68,000 ($3,684). These employers hired illegal foreign nationals without valid work permits.
The department conducted blitz inspections in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs and the police. They aimed to enforce immigration and labor laws.
Minister Nomakhosazana Meth stated that the DEL ensures labor laws protect workers. The Department of Home Affairs handles immigration law enforcement.
Meth explained that the Department of Home Affairs takes legal action against both employers and undocumented employees. This happens when businesses fail to comply with immigration laws.
Authorities found 68 employers and 322 foreign nationals violating South Africa’s labor and immigration laws. They discovered these violations across the country’s nine provinces during the recent crackdown.
Officials continue to urge businesses and individuals to follow legal employment regulations. They warn that further inspections and enforcement measures will take place.
