Reports of gunfire and police clashing with illegal miners circulated on Friday, 26 February. But Sergeant Gloria Maswanganye from the West Rand District Police corporate communications confirmed that it was a police operation at the old Makhulugama informal settlement.
The police, South African National Defence Force and Mogale City Traffic joined forces for the operation that started at 4.30am and lasted until 2pm that afternoon.
The focus was on illegal mining in the West Village (Makhulugama) area, and even the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety in the Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM), Anna Setswalomoja showed up.
“Illegal miners undertake mining activities without state permission, infringe on land rights and operate without a mining and/ or exploration licence,” said Maswanganye.
She said their activities also pose a health risk as they breathe in toxic chemicals or absorb them through their skin. They also operate heavy machinery and are exposed to flooding and gas explosions.
Thirty people were arrested on Friday, one for being in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and another for dealing in liquor without a licence.
One man was arrested for illegal mining and excavation, bribery, possession of gold-bearing material, trespassing as well as being an illegal immigrant.
Twenty-seven other illegal immigrants were arrested, and police confiscated a 9mm firearm with ammunition, cylinders, 45 840ml of liquor and cash during the operation.
The Krugersdorp Police station commander, Brigadier Mashao, on behalf of the District Commissioner, Major General Fred Kekana thanked all role players for their commitment.
