The bodies of 19 people‚ suspected to be illegal miners‚ were discovered in one of the active mines in the Krugersdorp area yesterday with police saying they do not suspect foul play.

“Members of the Krugersdorp Police responded to a call at about 15:00 following the discovery of the bodies,” says Gauteng Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili.

She says preliminary investigations suggest the deceased were moved and placed where they were discovered.

“No foul play is suspected at this stage and a post-mortem will determine the cause of death. All the necessary role players were summoned to the scene. An inquest docket has been registered for further investigation.”

In July a film crew were robbed in the Krugersdorp area and eight women raped by a gang of illegal miners, also known as ‘zama zamas’.

Police Minister Bheki Cele launched an operation wherein more than 80 suspected illegal miners were arrested.

Last week, rape, sexual assault and robbery with aggravating circumstances charges were withdrawn against 14 suspects due to a lack of evidence. They remain in custody but now only face a charge of contravening of the Immigration Act.