Johannesburg – Two illegal miners from Lesotho have been shot dead by police in Carletonville.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the illegal miners – better known as Zama Zamas – engaged in a shootout with police on Sunday, 8 February 2026.
Brigadier Mathe said the fatal shooting occurred during a SA Police Service National Intervention Unit intelligence-driven operation in Carletonville
“Information they had received indicated that there were illegal miners in possession of a large consignment of unlicensed firearms and ammunition,” said Brigadier Mathe.
“Upon arrival at the targeted house at around 04:00 on Sunday morning, members observed suspects attempting to flee by jumping out through windows.
“’The suspects immediately opened fire on police officers, and members responded accordingly.”
The police spokesperson said the prolonged exchange, estimated to be two hours of gunfire, ensued between the suspects and police.
“As a result of the confrontation, two illegal miners were declared dead at the scene, two AK47s, two pistols, and ammunition were seized,” Brigadier Mathe stated.
“Despite the high risk and intensity of the operation, no police officers were injured.
“The suspects identified as Basotho [Lesotho nationals] are assessed as extremely dangerous and pose a threat to public safety, as they showed no hesitation in engaging police.”
Police were carrying out surveillance operations in the area to apprehend other illegal miners who ran into the bushes during the exchange of fire.
