Operation PROSPER || Illicit Mining and Anti-Criminality Operation in Gauteng Province

Crime

Solomon Mahlangu Regiment’s Alpha and Bravo Companies, deployed under Joint Tactical Headquarters Gauteng Province together with the South African Police Service, had Illicit mining operation at Bundu Inn, Randfontein, in the West Rand District, on Monday, 07 September 2026, resulting in the arrest of 31 suspects.

The suspects, aged between 25 and 43, are from Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Mozambique and South Africa. They were arrested for various offences, including illegal mining, possession of illegal mining equipment and contravention of immigration laws.

The following illegal mining equipment was confiscated

* 44 Petrol generators
* 2 Water pump generators
* 4 Electric water pumps
* 20 Phenduka
* 26 Electric jackhammers
* 9 Connector cap cables
* 7 Detonator cords
* 6 Superpower Blasting Cartridges
* 8 Steel Stamper Pots
* 7 Steel Stamper
* 7 Shovels
* 116 Steel Balls
* 3 2kg Hammers
* 2 Bowsaws
* 4 SOS Masonry long drill bits
* 8 Jack hammer drill bits

The South African National Defence Force and South African Police Service remain committed to strengthening joint operations aimed at combating crime, disrupting illegal mining activities, and ensuring that peace and security prevail among the citizens of the Republic of South Africa.

Article by Corporal Sindi Ntayinganell and Photographs by Combat Camera Team || Joint Tactical Headquarters Gauteng Province Operational Communications Office.

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OperationPROSPER