Over 20 arrested in West Rand illegal mining crackdown
A coordinated effort involving police intelligence, traffic wardens and community patrols led to the disruption of criminal activity linked to illegal mining across several areas in the West Rand. Authorities say more operations are expected.
Police and other law enforcement agencies made more than 20 arrests during illegal mining operations in the Soul City, Rietvallei, Sinqobile, Azaadville and Swanieville areas.
According to the Gauteng Department of Community Safety spokesperson, Ofentse Morwane, those nabbed will be charged for various crimes, which include illegal mining, contravention of the immigration act and being in possession of explosives. They are expected to appear in the Krugersdorp Magistrate’s Court soon.
“Various items, including a hammer, penduka drums and bags containing explosives, were also seized,” Morwane confirmed.
The police’s drone and crime intelligence units, National Policing Operations West Rand, Gauteng Traffic Wardens and CPF patrollers were involved in the operation.
