A big break in the fight against illegal mining came for the West Rand District recently when police made a major bust resulting in the arrest of 13 illegal miners.

The police in the District joined forces with Sibanye as well as G4S security to conduct a search for illegal mining operations. This operation, conducted in the Kagiso precinct from 5.30am on Wednesday, 13 January, was done under the watchful eye of the Visible Policing Commander, Colonel Mabuso.

Since illegal mining activities around Kagiso present a major risk to illegal miners and other residents, the aim of the operation was to address these issues.

They use extremely environmentally unfriendly refining methods and materials which also put their lives at risks. They illegally acquire explosives and other equipment that they use to make illegal electricity and other connections,” said Sergeant Maswanganye, spokesperson for the West Rand District Police.

The team managed to arrest 13 illegal miners and one undocumented foreign national during the operation. They also confiscated four explosives, 67 phendukas, nine generators, 11 gas bottles and 19 bags of gold-bearing materials.

Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Police commissioner, welcomed the arrests and thanked the team for their hard work.

He also appealed to the community to continue to report illegal mining activities in their area.

These activities can be reported to the Kagiso Police on 011 696 9000 or to the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Alternatively make use of the mySAPS app.