Undocumented Mozambican national arrested with explosives

Two undocumented Mozambican nationals, aged 24 and 46, were arrested by police in Mpumalanga during operations related to Operation Vala Umgodi. The arrests took place in Pilgrim’s Rest on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to address illegal mining and related criminal activities in the area. The 24-year-old suspect was arrested for unlawful possession of explosives.

Police found him with four devices suspected to be explosives, as well as four cords, during their disruptive activities in Pilgrim’s Rest. The suspect could not produce a permit to possess the explosives, leading to his arrest.

Further investigation revealed that he was a foreign national without valid documentation to be in South Africa.

In a separate incident, the 46-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of gold-bearing material and illegal mining equipment. He also lacked valid documentation to remain in the country.

Both suspects face charges of contravening the Immigration Act in addition to their respective charges related to explosives and gold-bearing material. Investigators are working closely with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to handle the immigration-related aspects of the cases.

Both suspects are expected to appear soon at the Pilgrim’s Rest Magistrate’s Court. In light of these arrests, the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, expressed concern about the ongoing issue of foreign nationals being involved in criminal activities, including illegal mining.

This situation underscores the need for continued vigilance and enforcement efforts in combating such crimes in the region.”We call on everyone, including foreign nationals, to obey the law or face the full might of the law. We also commend the men and women in Blue for the arrests made,” said the General.

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