Metro police shut down illegal mine in Booysens

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The Johannesburg metro police together with the Hawks dismantled a gold refinery linked to Zama Zama syndicate in Booysens in the fight against illegal mining.

The JMPD K-9 Unit worked with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and two private security companies. They conducted the operation after gathering intelligence and doing surveillance.

The raided facility is believed to have been operating as a key processing hub for illegal mining (Zama Zama).

In a statement issued, the facility is legally registered to process precious metals. However, investigations found it was illegally processing gold for illegal miners. This goes against its registered purpose.

​”Four suspects were arrested on the scene. This includes three individuals, two males and one female, identified as suspected illegal miners (Zama Zamas) and the male manager of the facility.

“The suspects have been formally charged with the contravention of the Precious Metals Act (possession and dealing in precious metals) and bribery after they attempted to bribe the officials with R20 000 for their release,” the statement read.

Metro police targeting all parts of illegal mining

Authorities seized gold-bearing material and processed gold with an estimated street value of R1,000,000. The facility has been shut down pending further investigation.

JMPD Acting Chief of Police, Eldred Fortein, said: “This joint operation sends a clear message. The JMPD and the Hawks are actively targeting all parts of illegal mining.

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“We are not just focusing on the individuals underground, but on the sophisticated, illegitimate infrastructure, like this refinery, that enables illegal miners to operate.

“We will continue to disrupt these criminal networks that threaten the safety and economic stability of our city.”

The arrested suspects are expected to appear in court soon.