Johannesburg – Two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members died after they fell into an abandoned mine shaft while chasing illegal miners in Roodepoort, Gauteng.
The soldiers were part of an anti-illegal mining “Operation Prosper” in Gauteng.
Announcing the tragedy, the SANDF said it “regrets to confirm the loss of life of two of its members on Friday, 17 July 2026, during an anti-illegal mining operation under Operation Prosper”.
The SANDF added: “At approximately 06:00 hours this morning, SANDF members deployed at the abandoned CRD Mine in West Johannesburg spotted suspected illegal miners exiting the underground workings.
“A pursuit ensued into a tunnel, during which the two members tragically fell into an open, abandoned vertical mine shaft.”
The Ministry of Police has extended its heartfelt sympathies to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased members, describing them as brave public servants who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.
“The loss of these courageous soldiers is a devastating blow to the security cluster and the nation at large,” said Minister Cachalia.
“We honour their commitment, dedication and selfless service in the fight against illegal mining and organised crime.”
Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, expressed her “deepest condolences”.
Lieutenant General Dimpane also paid tribute to the SANDF members who continue to work side by side with SAPS in combating illegal mining activities across the country.
“SANDF members have been invaluable partners in Operation Prosper and other crime-fighting initiatives,” said the acting police commissioner.
“Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the work they dedicated their lives to continues.”
Despite this tragic loss, Operation Prosper continues to record significant successes in disrupting illegal mining activities and dismantling criminal syndicates operating in abandoned and active mining areas in Gauteng.
During today’s operations in Gauteng, 20 illegal miners were arrested, of whom 19 are foreign nationals who are in South Africa unlawfully.
These include nine Mozambican nationals, six Zimbabwean nationals, three Malawian nationals and one Lesotho national. One South African national was also arrested.
Between 1 April 2026 and 30 June 2026, the joint operations conducted by SAPS and SANDF in Gauteng resulted in the arrest of 793 suspects, including 595 illegal immigrants found to be unlawfully in the country.
Joint operations also led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of illegal mining equipment, including generators and phendukas, as well as 973 859 grams of gold-bearing material.
The Ministry of Police has reaffirmed the government’s resolve to intensify the fight against illegal mining and bring those responsible for plundering the country’s mineral resources to justice.
“The sacrifices made by our members and soldiers will not be in vain. We remain steadfast in our efforts to eradicate illegal mining and protect South Africa’s economic interests from criminal syndicates,” said Minister Cachalia
The SAPS salutes these fallen heroes who placed their country first. May their souls rest in eternal peace, and may their loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult period.
