Police have released further details following the large-scale Operation Prosper at Losberg Kloof Mine in Westonaria, during which 217 suspects linked to illegal mining were arrested.

The operation, conducted on Tuesday, July 7, was led by police in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force, Sibanye Protection Services and Fidelity Specialised Services.

The multidisciplinary operation targeted illegal mining and related criminal activities, which continue to pose a significant challenge in parts of Gauteng.

• Read the initial article here: VIDEO: Westonaria mine raid yields more than 150 arrests

Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said those arrested included undocumented foreign nationals from Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Lesotho. She added that two additional suspects were arrested for the possession of ammunition and for allegedly aiding and abetting the undocumented foreign nationals.

During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered various items associated with illegal mining, including phendukas, as well as food and alcohol believed to have been used to sustain illegal mining operations underground.

Authorities also seized a 9mm pistol, two magazines and 118 rounds of AK-47 ammunition.

Operation Prosper forms part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to dismantle illegal mining operations and associated criminal networks across the province.

Police said investigations are continuing, with further operations expected as authorities intensify efforts to combat illegal mining and bring those responsible to justice.