PILGRIM’S REST / WATERVAL BOVEN — A major multidisciplinary crackdown on illicit mining operations has led to the arrest of 16 suspects in Mpumalanga.

The coordinated disruptive operation, executed on Thursday, 21 May 2026, targeted the areas of Bagdacht and Slaaihoek near Waterval Boven, as well as Pilgrim’s Rest.

According to authorities, the arrested suspects are linked to ongoing illegal mining activities in the region. Law enforcement officials have also indicated that the individuals are suspected of being illegal immigrants.

Police confirmed that this multi-agency raid is part of an aggressive, ongoing provincial strategy designed to eradicate illicit mining operations and dismantle the criminal syndicates driving them. All suspects are expected to face charges related to illegal mining and violations of immigration laws.