TZANEEN, LIMPOPO - In a significant operation aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegal firearms, the Tzaneen Police, as part of the Mopani District's Operation Vala Umgodi, arrested a 31-year-old man for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The operation, which took place in the early hours of Friday, 16 February 2024, involved a multi-disciplinary team including the Tactical Response Team and the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (DPCI). Acting on intelligence, the team apprehended the suspect at his residence in Marironi village outside Tzaneen, finding him in possession of an unlicensed firearm and eight live rounds of ammunition while he was asleep.

According to South African Police Service, Operation Vala Umgodi is a high-density initiative aimed at ridding the streets of Limpopo of illegal firearms and has led to the arrest of a total of 35 suspects on the same day. These arrests occurred at various locations across the province, including the Beitbridge Port of Entry, for a range of offenses such as contravention of the Immigration Act, possession of illicit cigarettes, and public smoking of dagga. The operation underscores the Limpopo Police's commitment to combating illegal mining and other criminal activities.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, commended the collaborative efforts and achievements of the operational teams. The arrested suspects are slated to appear before various Magistrate's Courts on Monday, 19 February 2024, facing charges related to their offenses. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to ensure public safety and uphold the law in Limpopo.