A 32-year-old suspect was arrested on Saturday, 19 April 2025, in Ermelo during a crime-combatting initiative, Operation Vala Umgodi. The arrest took place after authorities discovered dagga hidden in luggage at a local supermarket’s parcel counter.
The bust followed a tip-off received by the SAPS Combat Team while conducting a disruptive operation at a mine nearby. Upon investigating the suspicious luggage, two black plastic bags filled with dagga—estimated to weigh 3.5kg and valued at approximately R10,000—were recovered.
The suspect was charged with possession of dagga and is scheduled to appear in the Ermelo Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, 22 April 2025.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, commended the team for the continued success of Operation Vala Umgodi, a campaign targeting illegal mining and associated crimes.