A suspect, aged 35, was arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi in Ermelo, for possession of suspected stolen coal. The man was cornered on Tuesday, 22 April 2025. He was apprehended by members from the Combat team.
The team carried out an intelligence driven operation and spotted the bakkie that was suspected to be carrying coal at Golfview site in Ermelo. One occupant from the vehicle immediately fled the scene when he noticed the Police, leaving behind his fellow. The astute members stopped the said vehicle and during the search, members discovered the coal, loaded inside the bakkie. Meanwhile members found about 50 kilograms of coal as well as two Toyota bakkies and a cell phone. All these items were seized to form part of the investigation by the Police. It was during this period when the male suspect that remained in the car was apprehended.
The suspect was charged for possession of suspected stolen coal. He is expected to appear at the Ermelo Magistrate's Court on Thursday, 24 April 2025, facing the said charges.
Police are still in pursuit of the suspect who had fled and members of the public with information on his whereabouts can call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi thanked members assigned to carry out duties pertaining to Operation Vala Umgodi, for their dedication and unwavering commitment in fighting crime.
Truck and Freight
