By Nkosinathi Mandhlazi
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested six suspects and seized explosives during a targeted operation in Verulam, Barberton, on Wednesday.
According to the SAPS, two of the suspects are foreign nationals without valid documentation, while the remaining four were found in possession of explosives. The operation, conducted under Operation Vala Umgodi, led to the recovery of three electric detonators, four capped fuses, 25 orange detonating cords, and nine blasting cartridges.
This development comes shortly after the discovery of 550 illegal miners in the area the previous week. Authorities believe these operations are part of broader efforts to combat illegal mining and related criminal activities.
Residents have long voiced concerns about rising violent crime in Barberton, including murders, firearm proliferation, and illicit activities around local mines. Speaking during a Community Engagement Session earlier this year, resident Zelda Makhubela said crime has become a constant source of fear.
“We no longer sleep here in Barberton. A minute you are awake because of crime, murders, and gun shooting – and many of these criminals are those working in the mine,” she said.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the officers involved.
“This success is an indication of our unwavering commitment to work collaboratively with other law enforcement agencies in our relentless pursuit to reduce crime levels in Barberton and throughout the province. Our communities can have confidence that we are listening to their concerns and are taking decisive action against crime,” Mkhwanazi said.
The suspects are expected to appear soon in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on charges of illegal possession of explosives and contravention of the Immigration Act.
