A total of 21 illegal immigrants were among dozens of suspects arrested during a week-long crime-fighting operation conducted across the Ekurhuleni District in Gauteng.
The arrests formed part of #OperationProsper, a multi-disciplinary law enforcement initiative aimed at combating illegal mining activities and other serious crimes in the province.
According to police, suspects were arrested on various charges, including possession of drugs, possession of explosives, and possession of counterfeit cigarettes. The operation also led to the seizure of a significant quantity of equipment believed to be used in illegal mining activities.
Among the items confiscated were 104 phendukas, 21 steel pot crushers, 11 explosives, 19 generators, six gas cylinders, three hammers, three stampers and five phenduka stands.
Authorities said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks involved in illegal mining, which continues to pose serious safety, environmental and economic risks across Gauteng.
Police have vowed to continue conducting disruptive operations aimed at displacing illegal mining syndicates and reducing crime in affected communities.
Law enforcement officials have also appealed to members of the public to support the fight against crime by reporting suspicious activities and refraining from harbouring individuals who are in the country illegally.
Residents are encouraged to report criminal activities through the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tip-offs via the MySAPSApp, which is available for download on smartphones.
Authorities say community cooperation remains a crucial component in the ongoing battle against illegal mining and organised crime in the province.
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