More than 480 people appeared in the Barberton Magistrates’ Court on Monday for charges related to illegal mining. Among them were four juveniles.
Police arrested the group at Barberton Mine on Friday, 1 August 2025, during a joint operation with Sheba Mine.
The arrests were part of Operation Vala Umgodi, a long-term effort to dismantle illegal mining syndicates in the area.
The charges include trespassing, theft of gold-bearing material, and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Some suspects granted bail
The court granted bail of R2 000 each to 26 of the accused. The magistrate considered that these individuals had no prior convictions, no pending cases, and had fixed addresses.
The court warned them not to commit any offences while on bail.
State to oppose bail for repeat offenders
The State said it would oppose bail for those with prior convictions or pending cases.
The court remanded the remaining accused in custody and postponed the case to 11–12 August 2025 for address verification and further bail hearings.
NPA: Illegal mining harms the economy and health
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stated that it remains committed to prosecuting illegal mining, which poses significant risks to the economy, human health, and the environment.
Do you think it’s fair to grant bail to some of the accused illegal miners, or should all suspects remain in custody until trial?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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