Multiple arrested in illegal mining operations

GAUTENG – The Law enforcement agencies in Gauteng conducted an integrated illegal mining operation at Sol Plaatje informal settlement in Roodepoort.

The forces of the operation included different units from SAPS, SANDF, JMPD, Department of Traffic, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Mineral Resource, Crime Prevention Wardens, CPF and private security companies.

During the operation, which was aimed at disrupting and dismantling illegal mining activities in that area, several people were arrested and goods were also seized. The arrests include more than 20 undocumented persons, four people who were found transporting gold bearing material and one person found in possession of 43 mandrax tablets.

The team further dismantled the operating sites of illegal miners and seized their tools of trade such as phendukas, gas cylinders, generators, batteries, shovels, gold bearing material, explosives, steel balls and liquor.

These operations will continue throughout the province in areas that are affected by Illegal mining.