In a collaborative effort, members of the South African Police Service, South African National Defence Force, and the Department of Home Affairs, along with other law enforcement agencies, conducted a massive operation in Marathon Informal Settlement, Primrose, Ekurhuleni, leading to the arrest of over 100 suspects involved in illegal mining.

The operation, which spanned from morning until late afternoon on Friday, 1 December 2023. Aimed to address concerns regarding illegal mining and random shootings in the area.

OVER 100 UNDOCUMENTED INDIVIDUALS WERE ARRESTED

Over 100 undocumented individuals suspected of involvement in illegal mining were apprehended during the operation.

Law enforcement authorities targeted and dismantled several locations where illegal processing of gold-bearing material was taking place.

A substantial quantity of tools used in these illegal activities. Including gas cylinders, pendukas, explosives, and generators, were seized by the authorities.

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela commended the coordinated efforts of the integrated forces.

He urged the community to remain vigilant and report any illegal activities, emphasising the positive impact of the South African National Defence Force’s presence in the ongoing fight against illegal mining in the province.

THESE JOINT OPERATIONS TO COMBAT THE ILLEGAL MINING WILL PERSIST ACROSS THE PROVINCE

Mawela asserted that these joint operations, under the leadership of senior officers, will persist across the province. To combat the persistent issue of illegal mining.

“The presence of the SANDF members and other law enforcement agencies is helping us a great deal as we continue to make inroads in the fight against illegal mining in our province,” said Lieutenant General Mawela.

The crackdown reflects a commitment to maintaining law and order. While safeguarding communities from the dangers associated with unauthorized mining activities.

source:Over 100 arrested in crackdown on illegal mining in Ekurhuleni (thesouthafrican.com)