Two men were arrested in Primrose on April 26 after officers from the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department Intervention Unit uncovered illegal mining equipment and suspected explosives.

According to EMPD, the arrests followed information received from a reliable source about individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining activities and in possession of prohibited items. Officers were dispatched to an informal settlement in Primrose, where the suspects were located.

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A search of the premises led to the discovery of equipment believed to be used in illegal mining operations, including two phendukas and two motors. Officers also found a shovel, several metal objects suspected to be linked to cash-in-transit crimes, as well as explosives and connector cap fuses.

The suspects were arrested on the scene and detained at South African Police Service Primrose Police Station. They are facing charges related to possession of illegal mining equipment and contraventions of immigration laws.