Illegal miners terrorise West Rand – Police arrest 50, increase security
After weeks of terror by illegal miners, West Rand police have arrested 50 suspects and will maintain a heavy patrol presence.
The police are continuing their efforts to stabilise areas affected by illegal mining in the West Rand District.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said that between December 23, 2025 and January 27, 2026, Public Order Policing Units across Gauteng Province arrested approximately 50 suspects.
Charges include illegal mining, possession of suspected stolen goods, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, contravention of the Immigration Act, murder, and breaches of the Liquor Act, among others.
The operations, primarily targeting Bekkersdal and surrounding areas, have also resulted in the seizure of equipment used for illegal mining, including phendukas, gas cylinders, stone crushers, spades, generators, jackhammers, and water pipes. In addition, police confiscated gold-bearing materials, five unlicensed firearms, and various explosives.
Nevhuhulwi added police visibility in the area will continue to be strengthened through patrols, stop-and-search operations, and other proactive measures.
“The operations are ongoing, and we urge the public not to harbour criminals in their homes. Residents are encouraged to report any criminal activity to the nearest police station or via the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111. Anonymous tip-offs can also be submitted using the MySAPS App, which is available on any smartphone,” Nevhuhulwi concluded.
• Also read: Illegal miners force Sporong residents to seek shelter at community hall
Residents left homeless amid illegal mining violence
Recently, the Herald reported how dozens of Sporong residents, including young children, newborns, and elderly people, have been left without shelter after fleeing violent attacks linked to illegal miners and being told to vacate the Randgate Community Hall, where they had sought refuge.
Residents fled their homes after receiving threats and witnessing a series of violent incidents in Sporong that began in October last year. They moved into the community hall on January 9 as a temporary safety measure. However, on January 15, they were informed that they had to leave the facility following complaints from the wider community, despite having nowhere else to go.
Sporong resident Ntebaleng Mosia said the situation in the area has deteriorated over several months, with residents living in fear due to the lack of police presence.
Provincial government steps in
On January 22, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, accompanied by Rand West City Executive Mayor William Matsheke, addressed Sporong residents and outlined relief measures.
Lesufi said all residents currently at the community hall will be relocated within seven days. Elderly, sick, and families with children will receive temporary housing while awaiting RDP allocation. Those already approved for RDP homes will be allocated, while others will return to Sporong. He also promised increased police presence, including a special unit targeting illegal mining and 24-hour patrols.
Read the full article in the latest edition of the Herald dated January 30 [https://www.citizen.co.za/randfontein-herald/epapers/randfontein-herald-30-janaury-2026/].
