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President Boakai Declares Thursday, June 26, As “International Drugs Day”


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The President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has by Proclamation declared Thursday, June 26, 2025, as “International Drugs Day” and is to be observed throughout the country as a Working Holiday. The Proclamation calls on all citizens; government ministries and agencies as well as international organizations concerned to join the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in executing appropriate programs befitting the occasion. According to a Foreign Ministry release, this year’s International Day Against Drug Abuse and its illicit trafficking will be observed under the global theme:  “The Evidence is clear, invest in Prevention. Slogan. Break the Circle. Stop Organized Crime”. Drug abuse and its illicit trafficking have posed major problems to the human race and millions of people worldwide continue to be affected directly and indirectly.

 The Proclamation is in consonance with an Act of National Legislature which was adopted in 1999, creating the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) with the authority to combat the importation, illicit trafficking and use of dangerous drugs. The observance of the day is intended to create awareness of the devastating effects of illicit drugs on individuals and families and to mobilize communities and other stakeholders against the use of such substances. On December 7, 1987, the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted Resolution 42/112, which set aside the 26th day of June of each year as International Day Against Illicit Trafficking of Drugs and other Substances of Abuse to be celebrated worldwide. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia.

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President El-Sisi Speaks with Iranian President Pezeshkian


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi spoke by phone with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said President El-Sisi expressed Egypt’s absolute rejection of the recent Iranian missile attack targeting the State of Qatar. 

The President emphasized Egypt’s condemnation of any actions that infringe upon the sovereignty of states, particularly Arab and Islamic countries. 

President El-Sisi welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran, affirming the importance of underpinning and adhering to this agreement, in light of the regional escalation that almost plunged the region into widespread chaos and violence.

The call also reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts and contacts over the past days with various concerned parties, mainly the United States, to curb the escalation and restore calm and stability to the region. 

The call underscored Egypt’s continued endeavors to exert all necessary efforts to solidify the ceasefire agreement.

The two presidents concurred that the current delicate and sensitive phase necessitates advancing comprehensive political solutions and adopting approaches that consider the various dimensions related to regional security. 

Both Presidents also reiterated the significance of resuming negotiations on the nuclear program between Washington and Tehran and the indispensability to address concerns related to nuclear non-proliferation, in addition to advocating the establishment of a Middle East Weapons of Mass Destruction-Free Zone.

The Iranian president expressed his gratitude and appreciation to President El-Sisi, valuing Egypt’s wise and supportive stances for restoring stability in the region, and the efforts to prevent bloodshed among all parties.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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Norway calls for G20 Sherpa meeting to address ongoing global conflict

Source: South Africa News Agency

Norway calls for G20 Sherpa meeting to address ongoing global conflict

Henrik Harboe of Norway has highlighted the crucial role of the third Sherpa meeting in addressing international crises, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as the broader tensions in the Middle East. 

“We are halfway through this year, only five months away from the summit in November, so we have a lot of work to formulate, what are the G20 recommendations to deal with all these international crises and the big issues around development and economic stability in the world,” he told SAnews. 

The third Sherpa meeting of the G20 kicked off on Wednesday morning at the Sun City Resort in the North West. 

“We’ll have a round [of discussions] about the G20’s role in the world in general. That’s very important. But then go straight into the geopolitical tensions. And then, of course, this being a group with a lot of different countries and different perspectives. 

“But I think we’ll touch upon Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the horrible crisis in Gaza as a result of Israel’s response to the terrorist attack. And then, of course, the recent developments in the broader Middle East, with both Israel and the US bombing of Iran,” he explained.

The Director of Development Policy at the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed deep concern about recent developments. 

He noted that these events involve multiple violations of international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter.

“I mean, G20 is actually not about geopolitics, but we cannot avoid discussing geopolitical issues.”

In his opening remarks, Zane Dangor, the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and South Africa’s G20 Sherpa, announced that the Foreign Ministers will have in-depth discussions on global geopolitical issues. 

These discussions will focus on international law and mutual accountability, while emphasising the importance of prioritising substantive matters.

In December last year, South Africa welcomed Norway as a G20 guest country during its Presidency. 

In an interview with SAnews, Harboe, a Norwegian Sherpa, said South Africa was poised to make history as the first African nation to host the G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

According to Harboe, the G20 focuses on sustainable development and a stable global economy to ensure growth for all countries.

As the first Presidency in Africa, Harboe believes they will use their position to highlight critical issues such as energy security, essential minerals, and sustainable development.

“All these issues are extremely important for Africa. So, we are very happy to see that and strongly support South Africa’s priority on these issues.” 

The official is of the view that South Africa serves as a microcosm of global challenges, making its perspective crucial. 

“South Africa has a huge poverty problem, job creation problem, inequality, and these are exactly the issues. 

“So, I think what we discussed around the G20 table is relevant for the world and developing countries, but also very much for Africa, and South Africa. South Africa’s own experience is extremely relevant for this broader discussion. I always encourage South African colleagues to talk about the challenges here.” 

He mentioned that he had attended a Just Energy Transition programme. He said while South Africa’s energy situation is challenging, it also serves as a valuable example for the world on how to conduct an energy transition in a fair manner while also creating job opportunities for young people.

On a lighter note, he told the SAnews that he had a wonderful stay in Sun City since his arrival. 

“I always love South Africa. It’s fantastic. Since I’m from Norway, the cold weather, I don’t mind, the fresh morning like today was just nice. The only problem this morning was a monkey, taking my bread on the breakfast table,” he said, with a chuckle. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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eThekwini Municipality cracks down on diesel theft

Source: South Africa News Agency

eThekwini Municipality cracks down on diesel theft

The eThekwini Municipality has called on residents to report any instances of fraud and corruption following the arrest of a man implicated in a diesel theft syndicate targeting the city’s fuel supply system.

According to the municipality, the suspect, who posed as a municipal employee, was apprehended while filling diesel at a petrol station used by the city’s fleet.

This followed a tip-off to the Municipal City Fleet Directorate, which reported suspicious activity involving certain vehicles refuelling excessively, with some more than 10 times a day.

A preliminary investigation conducted by the City Integrity and Investigations Directorate revealed that a municipal fuel master card, issued by the Water and Sanitation Directorate, was being fraudulently used by privately owned vehicles.

According to the municipality, the fuel master being used was for a vehicle that has been stationary for a long time and marked for disposal.

“The suspect had duplicated the number plate and branding on the side of the car doors to make it look similar to other municipal cars. in this instance, municipal employees were working with external people to conduct fraud and corruption.

“The culprit had four vehicles fitted with a 750-litre fuel tank at the base of each single cab van. The diesel was stored in these tanks and resold. Each vehicle generated about R78 000 a day,” Director of the City Integrity and Investigations Directorate, Jimmy Ngcobo said.

Ngcobo said the suspect, who did rounds everyday filling diesel at over 15 petrol stations around the city, was caught red-handed with assistance from the Metro Police and private company, Reaction Unit South Africa.

At the time of the arrest, the suspect, who was wearing a municipal uniform admitted that he does not work for the city but employed by a private individual and earned R2000 a day.

The suspect has since appeared in court on charges of fraud and corruption. The case was remanded to August 2025.

“This is organised crime and should be dealt with seriously. The municipality has suffered a great financial loss, which is why we are calling on various stakeholders to report fraud and corruption when they see it happening,” Ngcobo said.

The public can report fraud and corruption by calling 0800 20 20 20 or send an email to ombuds@durban.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs participates in the 49th Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – June 24, 2025

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani has participated in the 49th extraordinary meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC), held in Doha, under the chairmanship of HE Abdullah Al-Yahya, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the sisterly State of Kuwait, Chairman of the current session of the Ministerial Council, and in the presence of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the GCC countries.

During the meeting, the latest developments in the region were discussed, particularly the Iranian missile attack on Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, in addition to a number of topics of common interest.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs reiterated Qatar’s strong condemnation of the attack on Al Udeid Air Base by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, considering it a flagrant violation of its sovereignty and airspace, as well as of international law and the United Nations Charter. He noted that Qatar will continue to deal with all developments wisely, in line with its commitment to the principle of good neighborliness and the promotion of security and stability in the region.

He also expressed the State of Qatar’s gratitude to the Foreign Ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, who expressed their sister countries’ solidarity with Qatar following the Iranian attack, stressing that Gulf solidarity remains a crucial factor in light of common challenges.

During the meeting, the Ministerial Council of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf expressed its full solidarity with the State of Qatar and its full support for the measures it is taking to preserve its security and stability.

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Mai-Habar Technical School Graduates 140 Students


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Mai-Habar Technical School today graduated 140 students, including 58 females. The graduates completed two years of theoretical and practical training in auto mechanics, electricity, metal and woodwork, plumbing, and construction.

Mr. Tesfazgi Abraha, Director of the school, stated that Mai-Habar Technical School offers two years of vocational and academic training and plays a significant role in producing skilled professionals in various fields.

He noted that the Government of Eritrea continues to invest heavily in education as part of its strategy to build a strong and sustainable national economy. He called on the graduates to serve the public and the country with commitment.

A representative of the graduating class expressed appreciation for the educational opportunity and affirmed their readiness to meet the expectations of the people and the Government.

At the event, special awards were presented to outstanding graduates who achieved the highest scores.

Mai-Habar Technical School, established in 1994, has graduated 5,173 students to date.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Powering African Economies: African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 to Host Program Track on Power, Infrastructure Sectors

African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies – taking place September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – will feature a Power Africa Track as part of its main conference program. The track, dedicated to addressing emerging opportunities across the continent’s power and infrastructure sectors, will examine the state of play of Africa’s power market. Government representatives, private sector investors, independent power producers and public utilities will come together to discuss Africa’s future power systems – laying the foundation for new deals to be signed. 

While many developed nations prioritize renewable energy developments, African nations continue to face significant energy access challenges. Approximately 43% of the continent’s population lives without access to electricity, with rural and remote communities struggling to gain access to national grid networks. At the same time, Africa is also the continent most-effected by climate change impacts globally. This highlights a need – and emerging opportunity – for a coordinated approach by both the private and public sectors to develop infrastructure that meets the demands of both urbanized and rural communities. The AEW: Invest in African Energies Powering Africa Track offers a platform to discuss strategies for expanding energy access across the continent. Sessions will explore the role public-private collaboration plays, how market liberalization can bolster investments and the impact of integrated power pools. Panel discussions include: Energy Leaders Dialogue: Strengthening Public & Private Collaborations for Increased Energy Access; Empowering Africa’s Energy Future: Market Liberalization and Private Sector Leadership; Scaling Renewable Innovation: Bridging the Energy Access Gap with Off-Grid and Smart Technologies; and Connecting Africa: Advancing Regional Trade Through Integrated Power Pools.

Many countries in Africa are pursuing investment to support sustainable energy developments, seeking to both strengthen and expand power systems. Challenges related to inadequate generating capacity, transmission disruptions and maintenance have plagued many countries, resulting in unreliable power supply that hinders economic growth. South Africa, for example, Africa’s largest economy, struggles with intermittent power, largely due to an ageing coal fleet. To address this, the country is leveraging policy such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer program and Integrated Resource Plan to incentivize private sector investment in alternative energy sources. To date, the country has introduced 6.4 GW of renewable energy capacity to the grid through 122 independent power producers. AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 sessions on Balancing Investment Strategies and the Integration of Renewable into the Energy Mix and The Role of African Energy in a World Where Climate is No Longer the First Priority will explore the role of renewable energy in Africa’s power systems and how Africa’s priorities have shifted to power expansion.

Beyond renewables, Africa is well-positioned to leverage its natural gas and uranium resources to diversify its energy mix and strengthen power capacity. Wit over 620 trillion cubic feet of proven gas resources, the continent is turning to gas-based power to enhance access and support industrialization. Major projects include Angola’s 750 MW Soyo combined cycle power plant; Senegal’s 300 MW Cap des Biches power plant; Algeria’s 660 MW dual-fired Hassi Messaoud Gas Turbine plant, among others. In the nuclear sector, several African countries are pursuing power projects in collaboration with international partners. Projects are being planned in Burkina Faso, Ghana, Uganda, Rwanda, and more, all of which will complement the continent’s sole operating nuclear facility: South Africa’s Koeberg plant. Sessions on gas-to-power and nuclear at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will explore the emerging role these resources will play in Africa’s power sector. Sessions include Gas-to-Power: Meeting Africa’s Growing Domestic Energy Demand Now; Overcoming Infrastructure and Regulatory Hurdles to Nuclear Deployment; Energy Efficiency: The Cornerstone of Africa’s Sustainable Growth; and Powering Africa’s Industrial Revolution.

“With over 600 million people living without access to electricity, there has never been a more imperative time to advance the development of integrated power systems in Africa. While the continent’s population continues to grow, securing power supply becomes critical. By investing in African resources, strengthening infrastructure and introducing off-grid power solutions, Africa will be able to both alleviate energy poverty while driving long-term, sustainable growth,” states Sergio Pugliese, President for the African Energy Chamber, Angola.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit http://www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Keynote address by Deputy Minister in The Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli on the occasion of the Youth in Action Expo opening ceremony CTICC 2, Cape Town

Source: President of South Africa –

TOPIC: “Own Your Power: Learn, Lead, and Lift Others”

Programme Director, Ms. Rene Van Den Heever,
Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of the Givers,
Alderman Eddie Andrews, Executive Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town,
Ms. Tracy Mkhize, Acting CEO of CTICC,
Officials from the Presidency and local government,
Educators and parents,
Partners and sponsors,
And most importantly our young people in attendance today,

Good morning, 

I am so excited to join you at the 2025 Youth in Action Expo, hosted in this vibrant space of innovation, courage, and possibility. Thank you to the City of Cape Town, the Gift of the Givers Foundation, our education sector, civil society, and each exhibitor who has made this platform possible.

Today, we are not just addressing young people; we are speaking to the future CEOs, scientists, artists, engineers, farmers, educators, and changemakers of South Africa.

You are the hope we carry and the power we must unlock. 

I am a firm believer that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but rather the leaders of today as leadership is something that is shaped throughout one’s life – whether as a class rep, captain of the debating society, drama club or soccer team. We harness our leadership capabilities throughout our schooling career through our various interactions. 

Therefore let me start by congratulating all of your for making it to this year’s Expo. I am confident that your presence here today will open a completely new old of endless opportunities, bringing each and every one of you closer to your dreams. 

My fellow youth, we meet at the end of youth month commemorating 49 years since the June 16, 1976 uprising where the youth stood at the forefront of the liberation of our country. They were determined, fearless and relentless in pursuing a future South Africa they wanted to live in. 

Guided by the Freedom Charter, they fundamentally believed that South Africa belongs to all, black and white. As we celebrate 70 years of the Freedom Charter tomorrow, let us ask ourselves what lessons we can draw from the youth of 1976 to make a meaningful contribution to a future South Africa. 

The theme for this year’s youth month is “Skills for the changing world – Empowering youth for meaningful economic participation.” In this line with this, today’s expo is therefore seminal as a platform to connect young people with career pathways, educational opportunities and job prospects. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

We are all well aware of the plight of youth from our communities. Our peers are unemployed, some drowning in depression, susceptible to negative influences and finding themselves in drugs and crime. 

It is for this reason that as government, together with our social partners such as Gift of Givers commit ourselves to work tirelessly to improve the plight of youth in our country. We are working across all sectors of government to strengthen the economy, drive skills development, and connect young people with real opportunities.

Whether you are headed to a university, TVET College, or into the world of business, government has made great strides to support you on your journey.

Through the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), we continue to expand access to universities and TVET colleges. Institutions across the country are offering programmes in engineering, technology, business, hospitality, agriculture, and so much more. Through public sector investment, the post-schooling sector has transformed to doing online applications with majority of the institutions having waivered the application fee. We therefore encourage Grade 12 learners who are yet to apply to institutions of learning to do so immediately after today. 

Through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), government ensures that students coming from poor and working class backgrounds are not left behind as a result of their inability to afford education by providing funding for qualifying students to study at the institution of their choice. I must state that myself am a beneficiary of NSFAS having completed by undergraduate degree with the help of NSFAS funding. 

Additionally, there are scholarships and bursaries offered by various government departments and private sector partners. The various stalls from the different partners will have more information and we urge you to visit them. 

Compatriots,

Because we know that education does not only happen in lecture halls, many of you are passionate about starting your own businesses or pursuing careers in sports, arts and culture, there are equally of plenty opportunities waiting for you. 

The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture supports youth through development programmes, creative arts grants, and sporting academies. We want to see more young people telling their stories, performing on stages, creating jobs, and flying the flag on the sports field. From this collective seated here today, we want to see the future Grammy Award winning artists like Tyla and Trevor Noah, World Cup winning sportsmen like Siya Kolisi and Miss Universe winning models such as Zozibini Tunzi. 

For those of you with entrepreneurial ambitions, government and its partners are investing in youth-owned businesses. From start-up funding to business mentorship programmes provided by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Department of Small Business Development among other, government is committed to creating an enabling environment for you to build and own your future.

For those of us who are still in school, we continue to invest in safe and supportive learning environments. We know that learners cannot thrive in fear. That is why we are working to promote safe schools, free from drugs, bullying, violence, and gangsterism. Our schools must be places of dignity, safety, and growth. They must be places where we Learn, Lead, and Lift Others. 

We will only Learn, Lead and Lift Others when we maintain the basic principles of discipline, dedication, respect and compassion for others. Owning our poor as youth of 2025 like the youth of 1976 can only happen when we refuse to do that which robes us of our future. 

I therefore challenge you today to remain steadfast in your path to a prosperous future – work hard, stay on cause and importantly, choose your friends wisely. 

Before I conclude,

I want to pay tribute to Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman and the Gift of the Givers as a shining example of how one organisation, powered by volunteers, can bring hope to millions.

I challenge you today: get involved. Volunteer. Give your time. Help someone without expecting something in return. Whether it is cleaning your street, tutoring a classmate, or joining a community project your hands can heal and your voice can uplift.

Volunteering teaches humility, builds networks, opens doors and more than anything it reminds us that we are powerful when we serve.

In closing, 

I want to repeat, you are not the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders right now!!

Let us rise with purpose. Let us choose discipline over distraction. Let us honour those who paved the way by walking it with integrity.

And as you leave this room today, ask yourself this: What am I doing with the power I already have? Am I letting it go to waste or am I working towards changing the lives of my family, transforming my community and my country? 

Let us own our power by learning, leading and lifting others. 

I thank you and wish you well. 

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KZN Premier commends arrest in Umlazi mass murder case

Source: South Africa News Agency

KZN Premier commends arrest in Umlazi mass murder case

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has commended the arrest of a suspect in connection with the recent brutal mass murder that shocked the Umlazi community.

This comes after the arrest of a 28-year-old man in connection with the murder of eight people on 16 May 2025, at Zama informal settlement in U-section, Umlazi, south of Durban.

The victims, including six men and two women, aged between 22 and 40 years, were found lying in a pool of blood with multiple gunshot wounds.

According to the police report, the incident took place when unknown armed men entered an informal settlement and opened fire. Eight victims died on the scene.

The mass killing, which left multiple lives lost and families shattered, drew national attention and widespread condemnation.

Ntuli visited the affected area and called for a multi-agency response to restore peace and strengthen community policing.

In a statement on Wednesday, Ntuli hailed the arrest as a significant breakthrough.

“This arrest is a clear indication that our law enforcement agencies are capable, committed, and determined to restore safety and dignity in our communities. We commend the SAPS (South African Police Service), the Hawks, and all intelligence-led operations that worked relentlessly around the clock to ensure this progress,” Ntuli said.

Ntuli emphasised that people of Umlazi and KwaZulu-Natal at large deserve to live without fear, and “no individual or group has the right to undermine the safety and security of our communities.”

He added that the provincial government is intensifying its collaboration with the police and other safety structures to dismantle criminal syndicates, improve visibility in hotspots, and fast-track the installation of community-based crime prevention programmes.

The Premier also appealed to community members to work hand in hand with law enforcement agencies.

“Our fight against crime is a collective one. We urge residents to report any suspicious activities and to cooperate fully with ongoing investigations. It is only through unity and active citizenry that we can defeat crime and reclaim our communities.”

As the case proceeds through the justice system, Ntuli assured that the provincial government will continue to provide the necessary psychosocial support to the victims’ families, and work to ensure that justice is served without delay. – SAnews.gov.za
 

GabiK

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Operation Vala Umgodi nets 142 suspects

Source: South Africa News Agency

Operation Vala Umgodi nets 142 suspects

The South African Police Service (SAPS) says Vala Umgodi operations continue to be conducted across the country to combat illegal mining and associated criminal activities.

The most recent operations have led to the arrest of 142 suspects of different nationalities for illegal mining activities.

“These suspects were arrested for illegal mining related offences and various other crimes that include, among others, trespassing, possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of unpolished diamonds, unlawful possession of explosives, contravention of Immigration Act and drug trafficking,” the police said in a statement.

Police made several notable arrests and confiscated large quantities of gold bearing material in the past week.

In a series of targeted interventions, Operation Vala Umgodi teams successfully apprehended 130 undocumented foreign nationals directly involved in illicit mining activities and related offences across the Free State province. 

Police actions led to the seizure of substantial quantities of gold-bearing material and equipment crucial to these illegal activities, as well as three unlicensed firearms, 16 rounds of ammunition and a vehicle.

In the Northern Cape, on 17 June 2025, members executed intelligence-driven operation and arrested 15 suspects for contravention of the Immigration Act, illegal mining activities and possession of suspected unpolished diamonds in the Koingnaas and Beefmaster illegal mining camps, respectively. The team seized unpolished diamonds and a significant quantity of dagga.

On 19 June 2025, four suspects were arrested for trespassing, contravention of the Immigration Act in the Free State. One suspect was also arrested for the possession of an unlicensed firearm, a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform, dagga and suspected gold bearing material. The team also arrested three suspects aged between 45 and 32 years, after being found in possession of gold-bearing material at Theunissen. Police also seized packaged and sealed food items destined for the illegal miners underground, along with explosive detonators.

An intelligence-driven disruptive Vala Umgodi operation conducted at the Clovedene Informal Settlement in Crystal Park, Ekurhuleni in Gauteng, led to the arrest of eight illegal foreign nationals and suspected illegal miners. Police confiscated equipment used for illegal mining activities.

In Limpopo, on 17 June 2025, the Sekhukhune District’s Operation Vala Umgodi team apprehended nine suspects aged between 22 and 44 years for illegal mining and contravention of the Immigration Act. Several items including three wheelbarrows, a generator, a jackhammer, two shovels, three chisels, and bottles of petrol were confiscated.

In KwaZulu-Natal, on 17 June 2025,  40-year-old Sydwell Shane Mkhantswa appeared briefly in the Kwa-Mbonambi Periodical Court in connection with a case of theft of minerals over R800 000 from Richards Bay Minerals (RBM). Further investigation linked the suspect with another Kwa-Mbonambi case of theft of minerals in which he allegedly delivered RBM minerals to Isipingo in Durban, where police found over R24 million worth of suspected stolen minerals. 

“Operation Vala Umgodi remains committed to dismantling illegal mining syndicates and ensuring law and order to the affected provinces as well as safeguarding the country’s mineral resources,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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