Sixteen suspects, aged between 18 and 41, were arrested on 2 and 3 March during a targeted operation against illicit mining in the Pilgrim’s Rest area.
The Proactive and Combat team, deployed specifically for the operation, conducted disruptive raids in the Majacks informal settlement and Uptown area. Suspects were charged with offences including contravening the Immigration Act, possession of illegal cigarettes, possession of gold-bearing material, possession of gold-bearing equipment, and fraud.
Authorities recovered abandoned illicit mining equipment, including steel balls, metal detectors, rechargeable mine lab batteries, water pumps, motors, and other mining items.
The arrested individuals are expected to appear before the Pilgrim’s Rest Periodical Court soon. Detectives are working with the Department of Home Affairs to verify the immigration status of those detained.
