CITY, South Africa — In a significant operation targeting illegal mining and organized crime in Westonaria, authorities have arrested over 200 individuals, including the owner of a property accused of harboring illegal miners.
The Gauteng Deputy Police Commissioner, Fred Kekana, confirmed the arrest during a crackdown at the Losberg Kloof Mine, which also uncovered a cache of weaponry.
The operation, codenamed Operation Prosper, involved collaboration between the Gauteng Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure, the South African National Defence Force, and Sibanye Protection Services. Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the Gauteng police spokesperson, reported the seizure of a significant amount of weaponry, including an AK-47 rifle, four pistols, and ammunition.
The homeowner, a South African citizen, faces charges of harboring illegal immigrants and defeating the ends of justice. Authorities discovered three loaded, unlicensed firearms and a bottle containing mercury at two separate houses linked to the property. Mercury, used in illegal mining to separate gold from ore, poses serious health risks and is strictly regulated in South Africa.
The recent arrests are part of an ongoing effort by authorities to combat illegal mining, which has long been a pressing issue in areas like Westonaria. Gauteng Deputy Police Commissioner Kekana emphasized the severity of the charges and the government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal mining operations.
The involvement of the SANDF and Sibanye Protection Services in Operation Prosper underscores the comprehensive approach being taken to address the illegal mining crisis.
The discovery of the weapons and mercury highlights the risks associated with illegal mining activities.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify the nationalities of the miners and the extent of their operations.
The arrest of the homeowner sends a strong message that those who profit from or enable illegal mining activities will be held accountable.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
Source: Zandile.Khumalo
