Barberton – A 32-year-old Zimbabwean national has been arrested in Barberton, Mpumalanga, following a sting operation that uncovered explosives, gold-bearing material, and medication suspected to be linked to illegal mining and drug activities in the area.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, the operation was executed early on Friday, 18 July 2025, by a joint team comprising the Mpumalanga Organised Crime Investigation unit, Crime Intelligence, the Tactical Response Team, the White River K9 Unit, and private security firm Hi-Tech Security Company.
The team acted on reliable intelligence pointing to individuals allegedly involved in drug-related crimes. A search warrant was obtained and the operation commenced at approximately 05:00.
#sapsMP [ILLEGAL MINING] A 32yr-old Zimbabwean national was arrested on Friday 18/07 during a sting op in Barberton, explosives and medicine confiscated.
The operation was collaboratively executed by several specialized units, including Mpumalanga Organized Crime… pic.twitter.com/1NgYUyvbH1
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) July 19, 2025
“While searching the premises, members received further intelligence about a man suspected of selling explosives from the same residence,” police said in a statement.
Officers arrested the suspect and seized the following items:
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89 electronic detonators
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49 Superpower blasting cartridges
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A six-metre detonating cord
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Four safety fuses
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Nine boxes of cough medicine
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Gold-bearing rocks
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Two portable weighing scales
Police believe the suspect may have been supplying illegal miners operating in the region. He has been charged with illegal possession of explosives, gold-bearing material, and medication.
He is expected to appear in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 21 July 2025.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns about rising crime in Barberton, particularly linked to illegal mining. However, the SAPS in Mpumalanga has dismissed claims of inaction.
“In spite of negative narratives suggesting police reluctance, our continuous operations clearly demonstrate our commitment to eradicating crime,” said police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the operation, stating: “Barberton has been a priority for us. Our actions are starting to show results, and we remain determined to break the back of criminal networks in the area.”
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu