The operation was based on intelligence gathered in Benoni and Kingsway.

EMPD spokesperson Chief Supt Wilfred Kgasago said 44 arrests were made during the operation, which included suspected illegal miners and undocumented people.

Two full truckloads of equipment used in illegal mining was also seized.

During the operation in Kingsway, police confiscated 31 phendukas (bowl with perforated bottom to sift water and soil from gold dust), 37 phenduka stands, 34 iron-pot stone crushers, five four-pound hammers, several 20lt drums, oxygen cylinders, spades, bottles filled with mercury, explosives, explosive wires and detonators.

In Benoni, 35 taxis operating illegally in Voortrekker Street were impounded.

One person was arrested for possession of nyaope, 11 for illegal mining and 28 undocumented foreigners.

Three arrests were made for possession of explosives, one for possession of a stolen vehicle and one shebeen was shut down.

All the suspects were charged at the Benoni Police Station and were expected to appear in the Benoni Magistrates Court on July 22.

Also read: Teenager shot dead, four others injured