More than 70 suspects have been arrested during a major crackdown on illegal mining at Bundu Inn in Mohlakeng, west of Johannesburg.

Randfontein Herald reports the operation, conducted under Operation Prosper, saw a multidisciplinary team comprising the Gauteng police and the SANDF descend on the premises as part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining and related criminal activities in the West Rand District.

According to Gauteng police spokesperson Tintswalo Sibeko, more than 70 individuals, including seven women, were arrested during the raid. Law enforcement officers also seized more than 100 bags of gold-bearing material believed to be linked to illegal mining operations.

In addition, more than 20 generators were confiscated, while two motor vehicles suspected to have been used in the commission of criminal activities were impounded.

Interventions ongoing

Operation Prosper forms part of intensified interventions aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks, which continue to pose significant safety, environmental and economic risks in the region.

Police have indicated that the operation is still ongoing, with the possibility of more arrests and seizures as officers continue to search the area and process those already taken into custody.

Further details are expected to be released as investigations unfold.

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