Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) assigned to Operation Vala Umgodi arrested six suspects and confiscated explosives during a targeted operation in Verulam, Barberton, on Wednesday, 06 August 2025. Among those arrested, two were foreign nationals found without valid documentation, while the others were allegedly in possession of explosives.
This breakthrough is part of ongoing efforts to combat violent crime and illegal activities in Barberton and surrounding areas. The operation follows growing concerns from residents over rising crime levels, including murders, illegal firearms, and illicit mining operations.
Earlier this year, Deputy Minister of Police, Mr. Cassel Mathale, alongside SAPS management, held a community engagement session in Barberton, where residents voiced frustrations over perceived inaction by law enforcement. In response, SAPS pledged to implement a concrete plan to address these issues, leading to a series of targeted operations.
During yesterday’s operation in Verulam, police recovered:
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03 Electric detonators
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04 Capped fuses
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25 Orange detonating cords
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09 Blasting cartridges
Authorities are continuing their investigation and have not ruled out the possibility that the suspects were involved in illegal mining activities.
The six suspects are expected to appear in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court soon, facing charges of illegal possession of explosives, while the undocumented foreign nationals will be charged under the Immigration Act of South Africa.
