News Desk Reporter
The country continues to grapple with illegal mining, as criminal syndicates target mines and drain billions of rand from the economy each year.
As part of efforts to curb the crime, Gauteng police led Operation Prosper at Losberg Kloof Mine near Westonaria today.
The operation was supported by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Sibanye Protection Services.
Police said the operation is aimed at disrupting illegal mining activities and transnational organised crime in the area.
More than 150 illegal miners were arrested during the operation. They were taken into custody for offences linked to illegal mining.
Searches remain underway at the mine. Police said investigations are continuing as officers work to dismantle illegal mining networks operating across Gauteng.
Earlier this year, Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe warned that illegal mining remains one of the biggest threats facing the country’s mining sector.
He said the crime costs the economy billions of rand each year and is often linked to organised criminal syndicates.
Mantashe said illegal mining should not be confused with artisanal mining, which is a lawful and regulated activity.
He added that the crime has spread beyond abandoned mine shafts and is increasingly affecting operational mines. According to the minister, this poses growing risks to safety, security and the country’s economy.