- The integrated Operation Vala Umgodi continues to yield significant results across Limpopo, with the arrest of 33 suspects, aged between 18 and 49, for crimes ranging from illegal mining, possession and dealing in illicit drugs, to contravention of immigration laws. These arrests took place during multidisciplinary operations conducted from the early hours of Sunday, 16 February 2025, until the evening of the same day.

In the Sekhukhune District, a 46-year-old man was arrested for illegally mining sand in Thabakhubedu village within the Dennilton policing area. The suspect was caught loading sand into a truck, with four shovels and one spade confiscated by the police. Two undocumented foreign males were also arrested during the operation.

In the Mopani District, a 19-year-old undocumented foreign national and two other male suspects, aged 28 and 35, were arrested for possession and dealing in drugs. The drug dealer was found with 23 small transparent plastic bags containing crystal meth, seven bags of Nyaope, and seven silver-foiled plastics with rock drugs. The suspect also had R2, 210.00 in cash, believed to be proceeds from drug sales. Another drug suspect was found with one small transparent plastic bag containing crystal meth and two small bags of dagga.

Additionally, the Vhembe Task Team arrested 18 undocumented foreign nationals aged between 18 and 46 during a heightened operation within the Musina policing area. The Capricorn District Task Team also apprehended nine undocumented foreign nationals aged between 19 and 49 during a disruptive operation in Bergenek village, Westenburg policing area.

The arrested individuals are scheduled to appear before their respective Magistrate's Courts on Tuesday, 18 February 2025.