Extensive security campaign against illegal mining in South Africa, 137 people arrested in Gauteng
The operation was led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in cooperation with the National Defence Force
Written by: Ayman Ragab
Security forces in South Africa have arrested 137 people during a large-scale security operation targeting illegal mining activities in the Gauteng province.
The operation was led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in cooperation with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), alongside the protection services of Sibanye and Fidelity Specialized Services.
Illegal mining activities
The campaign targeted illegal mining activities and related crimes in the region. The list of those arrested included irregular immigrants from Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho. Two individuals were also arrested on charges of possessing ammunition, and aiding and abetting irregular immigrants.
During the operation, police seized equipment used in illegal mining, including “fendacas,” as well as quantities of food and alcoholic beverages.
Weapon settings
Security forces also seized a 9mm pistol, two magazines, and 118 rounds of AK-47 ammunition.
This operation comes as part of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat illegal mining and related criminal activities throughout the Gauteng province.
South Africa's campaign against illegal immigrants
In another context, South Africa's crackdown on illegal immigrants has led to a diplomatic crisis with Nigeria after Abuja claimed three of its citizens were killed amid what it described as “unjustified targeting” of African citizens, raising concerns that the fallout could undermine Africa's broader integration agenda.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Emeka Charles Iroegbu died on June 28 after police in Pretoria used “brutal interrogation methods,” while shop owner Musa Younana Jo was killed by unknown assailants in Emalahleni on the same day.
Extrajudicial killing
The ministry said the same officers “are allegedly responsible for the extrajudicial killing of another Nigerian citizen, Mr. Nnamika Matthew Andrew Ekwuinyong.”.
“His case is still under consideration; no one has been arrested even though the four officers involved are known to the South African Police Service.”
According to the ministry, the killings raise “the question of state responsibility under international law.”.
“The recorded data collected by our missions lays the groundwork for criminal responsibility.”
