Police arrest 39 people and seize explosives in week-long Randfontein illegal mining operation

Gauteng police arrested 39 suspects and seized explosives, suspected gold-bearing material and mining equipment during a week-long operation in Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD, the South African Police Service said.

The arrests were made between September 14 and 20 as SAPS, working with the South African National Defence Force, intensified Operation Prosper and Operation Karabo against illegal mining and related crimes in the province. As IOL reported on September 21, the operation produced one of the larger single-week seizures recorded in the area this year.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said the suspects face charges 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 largest seizure was in the Mohlakeng policing precinct, where officers confiscated 17 explosives, 12 blasting cartridges, detonating cord, connector capped fuses, a copper connector fuse and six stock tube assemblies. Sibeko said the explosives and related items were secured for further investigation and forensic processing.

Officers also seized generators, jackhammers, chisels, stampers, phendukas, water pumps, drill bits, spades, hammers, hacksaws and drills believed to have been used in illegal mining. Suspected gold-bearing material was also confiscated, and police said several suspects were intercepted while allegedly transporting the material around Mohlakeng and the Randfontein CBD.

SAPS said illegal mining remains 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 the public to report suspected illegal mining activity and the possession or transportation of suspected illicit goods.

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