30 suspected illegal miners arrested during police operation in Khutsong

Police have arrested 30 suspected illegal miners in Khutsong following a coordinated law enforcement operation targeting illegal mining activities in the area.

The arrests took place on Friday, 30 October 2026, during Operation Prosper, a multidisciplinary initiative involving several law enforcement agencies and community safety structures.

The suspects, aged between 20 and 48, include nationals from Lesotho, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Mining equipment seized during operation

The operation brought together Gauteng Public Order Policing, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), District Visible Policing, Khutsong police officers and Community in Blue patrollers.

During the searches, officers confiscated equipment and materials believed to be linked to illegal mining activities.

Items seized included phendukas, gold-bearing material, spades, chisels, hammers and a water pump.

Suspects expected in court

All 30 suspects are expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court soon.

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