Illegal mining operation leads to 217 arrests in Westonaria

A large-scale law enforcement operation at Losberg Kloof Mine in Westonaria has led to the arrest of 217 suspects, as authorities intensified efforts to curb illegal mining and related criminal activity across Gauteng.

The coordinated operation unfolded on Tuesday, 7 July, bringing together multiple security agencies in what has become one of the province’s latest interventions against illicit mining networks.

According to the South African Police Service, Operation Prosper was led by SAPS alongside the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), Sibanye Protection Services and Fidelity Specialised Services.

Among those arrested were undocumented foreign nationals from Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Lesotho, who police allege were involved in illegal mining activities.

Authorities also arrested two additional suspects on charges relating to the possession of ammunition and allegedly aiding and abetting undocumented immigrants.

During the operation, officers confiscated equipment believed to have been used in illegal mining operations, including phendukas, improvised mining tools, as well as food supplies and alcohol found at the site.

Police also recovered a 9mm pistol, two magazines and 118 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, adding another layer to concerns about the level of weaponry often associated with illegal mining operations.

While investigations continue, the arrested suspects are expected to face various charges linked to illegal mining and immigration-related offences.

Police said Operation Prosper forms part of broader initiatives aimed at disrupting illegal mining networks and tackling the criminal activities often associated with them.

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Source: SAPS