Authorities in the North West province of South Africa have arrested more than 40 illegal miners, commonly referred to as zama zamas, during a series of operations conducted in early May 2025. The arrests form part of Operation Vala Umgodi, a national effort targeting illegal mining activities.
The suspects, aged between 18 and 47, were detained in separate incidents in Sun City, Mogwase, and Tlhabane, according to provincial police spokesperson Adele Myburgh. They are facing a range of charges, including violations of the Immigration Act.
Myburgh confirmed that the accused, who come from various countries such as Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Malawi, Ethiopia, Swaziland, Nigeria, and Lesotho, are expected to appear before the Bafokeng and Mankwe Magistrates’ Courts.
Illegal mining remains a major challenge across seven provinces in South Africa. Earlier this year, a large-scale operation in Stilfontein led to the arrest of hundreds of illegal miners.
Police have raised concerns over the growing involvement of foreign nationals in criminal activities related to illegal mining. Myburgh stressed that the issue represents a significant threat to national security and calls for a coordinated response from government entities and civil society.
She noted that addressing the problem effectively requires collaboration among multiple agencies, including the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Border Management Authority, the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the South African Revenue Service.