Jabulile Mbatha20 April 2025 | 12:25

Mpumalanga police arrest 13 people for suspected illegal mining activities

Police said the suspects, aged between 18 and 35, were caught operating without authorisation in the Simile informal settlement in Sabie on Friday.

Mpumalanga police arrest 13 people for suspected illegal mining activities

Picture: Pexels

JOHANNESBURG - Thirteen people were arrested in Mpumalanga for suspected illegal mining activities over the Easter holiday weekend.

Police said the suspects, aged between 18 and 35, were caught operating without authorisation in the Simile informal settlement in Sabie on Friday.

Upon further investigation, officers discovered the group also did not have valid identification, leading to additional charges under the Immigration Act.

READ: North West police arrest 104 people suspected of illegal mining activities

Mpumalanga police spokesperson Mpho Nonyane said the suspects would appear in court on Tuesday.

"Meanwhile, during their arrest, the astute members seized illicit mining equipment at the scene. The suspects are expected to appear at the Sabie Magistrate's Court on tuesday, 22 April 2025."