Illegal gold refinery linked to zama zama syndicates dismantled in Johannesburg

A joint intelligence-driven operation involving the JMPD K9 Unit, the Hawks and two private security firms led to the shutdown of a clandestine gold refinery operating illegally in Booysens.

The discovery was a significant success in Johannesburg’s efforts to clamp down on illegal mining and the criminal networks across the city and the surrounding areas.

According to the JMPD, the facility was legally registered to process precious metals. However, investigators found it was illegally refining gold-bearing material sourced from zama zama syndicates, a contravention of its mandate under the Precious Metals Act.

ALSO READ: Cleveland illegal mining raid leads to nine arrests

Four arrests

Four people were arrested at the scene, three identified as illegal miners (two men, one woman) and the male manager of the refinery.

Authorities charged them with dealing in and possession of precious metals and bribery after allegedly attempting to bribe officers with R20 000 to secure their release.

Authorities seized processed gold and gold-bearing material valued at approximately R1m and shut down the facility pending further investigation.

JMPD targets wider criminal networks

ALSO READ: EMPD cracks down on illegal mining: six arrested in Germiston

Acting chief of police Commissioner Eldred Fortein said the operation demonstrated the city’s firm stance against illegal mining and related organised crime.

“This joint operation sends a clear message that the JMPD, alongside the Hawks, is aggressively targeting the entire value chain of illegal mining,” Fortein said.

“We are not just focusing on the individuals underground, but also on the sophisticated, illegitimate infrastructure, like this refinery, that enables illegal miners to operate.

“We will continue to disrupt these criminal networks that threaten the safety and economic stability of our city.”

ALSO READ: EMPD cracks down on illegal mining: six arrested in Germiston

The JMPD stated that the arrests were part of operations across Johannesburg aimed at dismantling syndicates, reclaiming industrial zones from criminal activity and protecting communities affected by illegal mining.

Those arrested will soon appear in court.

The JMPD reaffirmed its commitment to working with law enforcement partners to disrupt and dismantle illegal mining networks operating in the city.