Over 120 suspects nabbed in West Rand crackdown on illegal mining operations

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At least 121 suspects were arrested in Mohlakeng, West Rand District, for illegal mining, possession of gold-bearing material, and violating the Immigration Act.

This operation occurred on Friday under Operation Prosper, utilizing a multidisciplinary strategy.

It was led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in partnership with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to address illegal mining and associated criminal activities.

Gauteng deputy police commissioner Fred Kekana reported that a group of suspects includes 18 nationals from Lesotho, 37 from Zimbabwe, 28 from Mozambique, 33 from Malawi, and seven citizens of South Africa.

#sapsGP [OPERATION PROSPER AT MOHLAKENG, WEST RAND DISTRICT] #SAPS Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner, Major General Fred Kekana, Live on SABC and eNCA, confirming the arrest of over 120 suspects for possession of gold-bearing material, #IllegalMining and illegal immigrants.… https://t.co/rIfQJ5FBoT pic.twitter.com/gMgTKiIGJh

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) July 10, 2026

Illegal mining equipment seized

“During the operation, police seized equipment used in illegal mining, including generators, jackhammers, phendukas, water pumps, spades, a stamper, chisels, an axe, steel balls and a wheelbarrow, as well as cash and alcohol.

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“Police also recovered firearm magazines, one 9mm live round of ammunition, cellular phones, power banks and propane tanks.

“In addition, explosives comprising connector-capped fuses, detonating cord and Superpower 90 blasting cartridges were confiscated. Two vehicles, a Honda CR-V and a Volkswagen Polo, were impounded,” he stated.