Image: An unlicensed firearm recovered during the integrated enforcement operations.
Integrated law enforcement operations conducted across parts of Mpumalanga between 23 and 28 June 2026 resulted in the arrest of 37 suspects for a range of offences, including alleged illegal immigration and crimes linked to suspected illegal mining activities.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the coordinated operations were carried out in the Pilgrim’s Rest, Barberton, Ngodwana and Sabie areas as part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, enforce immigration laws, improve road safety and strengthen public safety.
Police said the arrests were primarily linked to alleged immigration offences, possession of suspected gold-bearing equipment and material, possession of explosives equipment, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Three notices were also issued for traffic-related infringements, while two suspects were arrested for allegedly contravening the Road Traffic Act.
Image: Suspected gold-bearing equipment and material seized during the operations.
A further suspect was arrested for allegedly contravening Section 7 of the Animal Identification Act after reportedly failing to brand-mark livestock. Detectives are working with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to verify the immigration status of relevant suspects.
SAPS said similar intelligence-driven operations would continue across Mpumalanga, with a particular focus on disrupting criminal activities associated with illegal mining and ensuring compliance with South African law.