Operation Vala Umgodi yields arrests of 2 suspects in Mpumalanga

JOHANNESBURG - Operation Vala Umgodi has yielded the arrest of two suspects in Mpumalanga this week.

An intelligence-driven search led the police to a house in Ermelo, suspected of illegal gold trade, where two suspects were found.

During the search, police uncovered a firearm hidden under a mattress belonging to one of the suspects.

The second suspect, who is an undocumented foreign national, was found with gold-bearing material.

Together, the suspects are charged with negligent handling of a firearm, possession of gold material, and contravention of the Immigration Act.

South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Captain Mpho Nyoyane said the suspects would appear at the Albert Luthuli Magistrates Court on Monday.

"The acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major-General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, has commended members assigned for Operation Vala Umgodi for their continued efforts in the province, and the general encouraged them not to get weary, as they are making a significant impact across the province."