Multi-agency operation dismantles illegal mining hub in Benoni

Illegal mining, often linked to violent crime and firearms-related offences, continues to pose a major challenge in affected areas, including Benoni, Boksburg and Germiston.

May 8, 2026

Fanie Mthupha 1 minute read

A dismantled illegal mining hub — The dismantled illegal mining hub in Clovedene, previously concealed as residential structures but used to support illegal mining activities.

A multi-agency operation in Clovedene, Benoni, has led to the arrest of 62 suspected illegal miners, the demolition of 46 illegally erected structures, and the confiscation of a range of mining equipment in the Putfontein area.

SANDF member stands guard as suspects are loaded into a police vehicle following arrests during the multi-agency operation.

SAPS officers display confiscated alcohol recovered during the raid, alongside other seized items.

The coordinated crackdown took place on May 6 and brought together the EMPD, SAPS, SANDF, Gauteng Traffic Wardens, Department of Home Affairs, Water and Sanitation, the Ekurhuleni Energy Department, Human Settlements, Environmental Health, the Department of Social Development, Disaster and Emergency Services, and private security services.

Authorities confirmed that all 62 arrested suspects were detained on charges related to illegal immigration and are expected to appear in the Benoni Magistrate’s Court.

Law enforcement officers display seized illegal mining equipment, including phendukas and other tools used in the illicit operation.

During the operation, the Energy Department disconnected unlawful electricity connections supplying the settlement, while the Land Invasion Unit and Human Settlements officials demolished structures identified as covering an illegal mining hub.

One officer working from a ladder to cut cables feeding the informal structures. — Officials disconnect illegal electricity supply, with one officer working from a ladder to cut cables feeding the structures.

Although the shacks appeared to be ordinary dwellings, officials said they were being used to conceal mining activities and store equipment.

Demolished shacks — Demolished illegal shacks in the area, which were found to be part of a concealed illegal mining operation.

The significant haul of illegal mining tools seized included phendukas, wheelbarrows, generators, motors, and gas cylinders. Police also recovered explosives from one of the structures, prompting the activation of the Bomb Squad to secure the scene. Liquor valued at approximately R5,000 was also confiscated.

Bags of sand inside a shack — Bags of sand suspected to contain gold-bearing material, seized at the illegal mining site for further investigation.

Illegal mining, often linked to violent crime and firearms-related offences, continues to pose a major challenge in affected areas, including Benoni, Boksburg and Germiston.

Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa deployed the SANDF to support SAPS and other law enforcement agencies in efforts to combat illegal mining and associated criminal activity.
In his State of the Nation Address, President Ramaphosa described organised crime as one of the most immediate threats to South Africa’s democracy and economic development.