Ekurhuleni – Police, backed by the army, swooped on the “Marathon” informal settlement in Primrose, Ekurhuleni, and arrested more 100 suspects for illegal gold mining in the area.
The raid on Friday followed an outcry from residents besieged by illegal miners – better known as Zama Zamas, who from time to time engage in gunbattles over their spoils.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, said the operation started in the morning and continued until late afternoon.
“The team arrested more than 100 undocumented foreign nationals who are also suspected to be involved in illegal mining in the area,” said Lieutenant Colonel Masondo.
“A number of places where they illegally process gold-bearing material were raided and dismantled.
“A significant quantity of tools of trade that include gas cylinders, pendukas, explosives, and generators were seized.”
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Elias Mawela applauded the integrated forces for pulling together and called for the community to continue to report illegal activities, including illegal mining.
“The presence of the SANDF members and other law enforcement agencies is helping us a great deal as we continue to make inroads in the fight against illegal mining in our province,” said Lieutenant General Mawela.
Lieutenant Colonel Masondo said the joint operations, led by senior officers, will continue across the province to deal with the scourge of illegal mining.
