South African authorities have made a major breakthrough in combating illegal mining, arresting nearly 500 illegal miners at the Sheba Gold Mine shaft in Barberton, Mpumalanga. These individuals, commonly referred to as zama zamas, are expected to appear in the Barberton Magistrates Court. Officials estimate that over a thousand illegal miners were operating underground at the site. The crackdown, known as Operation Vala Mgodi, highlights ongoing efforts to address the economic and community threats posed by illegal mining. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Cape, the education department has suspended five pupils from David Mama Senior Secondary School in Mdantsane following the circulation of a viral video showing male students assaulting an 18-year-old female pupil inside a scholar transport vehicle. The incident has prompted community protests demanding justice. Additionally, the Gauteng education department is investigating allegations of tribalism, bullying, and gangsterism in schools, including claims that a teacher failed to intervene during a child attack. The South African Police Service continues to target illegal mining operations, while government officials, including Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau and International Relations Minister, are addressing related economic pressures, including the effects of US tariffs. The news outlet eNCA has launched a new current affairs program, The Brief, in partnership with the Sunday Times, to provide in-depth coverage of such issues.