Police and SANDF Arrest 150 Illegal Miners in Westonaria
By Terries Twananani Hlongwani
WESTONARIA, Gauteng — More than 150 suspected illegal miners, commonly known as zama zamas, have been arrested during a joint operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) in Westonaria.
The operation targeted areas linked to illegal mining activities as authorities intensified efforts to combat criminal networks operating around abandoned and active mining sites.
Police and soldiers worked together to secure the area and remove individuals suspected of participating in illegal mining operations. Investigations are continuing as authorities work to establish the full extent of the activities and identify possible syndicates involved.
Illegal mining remains a major challenge in Gauteng, with communities affected by safety concerns, environmental damage, and criminal activities linked to unauthorised mining.
Authorities have urged residents to report illegal mining activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as efforts continue to restore safety in affected areas.
— Terries Twananani Hlongwani
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