A week-long law enforcement operation in Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD has resulted in the arrest of 39 suspects and the seizure of explosives, suspected gold-bearing material, and equipment allegedly used in illegal mining. The operation, which took place between September 14 and 20, was conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). The joint effort aimed to intensify Operation Prosper/Karabo against illegal mining and related crimes in Gauteng.
The arrested suspects face various charges, including possession of explosives and suspected gold-bearing material, possession of illegal mining equipment, immigration offences, and driving under the influence of alcohol. According to police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, the operation yielded a significant haul of explosives in the Mohlakeng policing precinct. The seized explosives included 17 explosives, 12 blasting cartridges, detonating cord, connector capped fuses, a copper connector fuse, and six stock tube assemblies.
The police also confiscated mining equipment and suspected gold-bearing material during the operation. The seized equipment included generators, jackhammers, chisels, stampers, phendukas, water pumps, drill bits, spades, hammers, hacksaws, and drills. These items are believed to have been used in illegal mining operations. Additionally, suspected gold-bearing material was confiscated from several suspects who were allegedly transporting it.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by authorities to disrupt illegal mining networks and the movement of materials believed to have been illegally extracted. During deployments around Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD, officers intercepted several suspects allegedly transporting suspected gold-bearing material. The police have urged members of the public to report suspected illegal mining activities and the possession or transportation of suspected illicit goods.
SAPS has stated that illegal mining remains a threat to communities, the environment, and public safety. The police have vowed to intensify their crackdown on illegal mining, with joint operations with other law enforcement agencies set to continue. According to Sibeko, "Illegal mining poses significant risks to communities, the environment, and public safety." The police will continue working with law enforcement partners and relevant stakeholders to identify, disrupt, and dismantle illegal mining operations across the province.
The seized explosives and related items have been secured for further investigation and forensic processing. The police have emphasized their commitment to combating illegal mining and related crimes in Gauteng. The operation in Randfontein is part of a broader effort to address the issue of illegal mining in South Africa.
The police have reported that the operation was successful in disrupting the illegal mining activities in the area. The authorities have called on the public to cooperate in the fight against illegal mining.
Key points
- 39 suspects arrested in a week-long operation in Randfontein
- Explosives, mining equipment, and suspected gold-bearing material seized
- Police vow to intensify crackdown on illegal mining in Gauteng
