Johannesburg: The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have arrested 36 individuals, including illegal immigrants, during a series of law enforcement operations targeting illegal mining activities in Gauteng. The authorities also seized more than 800 rounds of live ammunition and 16 unlicensed firearms.

According to South African Government News Agency, the joint operation, known as Operation Prosper, resulted in the recovery of illegal mining equipment such as phendukas, gas cylinders, generators, and steel pot crushers. These efforts were concentrated across the West Rand, Johannesburg, and Ekurhuleni between 25 and 31 May 2026.

The initiative is part of a national campaign introduced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, aiming to combat criminal networks associated with illegal mining and gang violence. Gauteng police spokesperson, Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, emphasized the operation's focus on upholding the rule of law, with SAPS leading the enforcement and SANDF providing additional support.

Nevhuhulwi stated that the intelligence-driven operation seeks to target gang violence and illegal mining within the region. The goal is to disrupt criminal networks and restore stability to communities impacted by these crimes.

Law enforcement teams will continue to maintain a presence on the ground to remove illegal firearms, arrest suspects, and dismantle criminal operations. Police have encouraged community members to report any criminal activities to their nearest police stations, call Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or send anonymous tips through the MySAPS App.