39 arrested as police seize explosives, illegal mining equipment in Randfontein crackdown - IOL

Police arrested 39 suspects during an illegal mining crackdown in Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD.

Thirty-nine suspects have been arrested and explosives, suspected gold-bearing material and equipment allegedly used in illegal mining seized during a week-long law enforcement operation in Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD.

The arrests were made between September 14 and 20, as the South African Police Service (SAPS), working with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), intensified Operation Prosper/Karabo against illegal mining and related crimes in Gauteng.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said the suspects were arrested for offences ranging from possession of explosives and suspected gold-bearing material to possession of illegal mining equipment, immigration offences and driving under the influence of alcohol.

The operation yielded a significant haul of explosives in the Mohlakeng policing precinct, where suspects were arrested for allegedly possessing explosive material.

Police confiscated 17 explosives, 12 blasting cartridges, detonating cord, connector capped fuses, a copper connector fuse and six stock tube assemblies.

“The explosives and related items were secured for further investigation and forensic processing,” Sibeko said.

Police also seized generators, jackhammers, chisels, stampers, phendukas, water pumps, drill bits, spades, hammers, hacksaws and drills believed to have been used in illegal mining operations.

Suspected gold-bearing material was also confiscated.

During deployments around Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD, officers intercepted several suspects allegedly transporting suspected gold-bearing material.

The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by authorities to disrupt illegal mining networks and the movement of materials believed to have been illegally extracted.

SAPS said illegal mining remained a threat to communities, the environment and public safety and that joint operations with other law enforcement agencies would continue.

“Illegal mining poses significant risks to communities, the environment and public safety,” Sibeko said.

“SAPS Gauteng will continue working together with law enforcement partners and relevant stakeholders to identify, disrupt and dismantle illegal mining operations across the province.”

Police have urged members of the public to report suspected illegal mining activities and the possession or transportation of suspected illicit goods.