Police also seized a 38. special revolver with four rounds of live ammunition.
According to Springs police spokesman, Capt Johannes Ramphora, the illegal miners were allegedly on their way to conduct illegal mining at 7am at the mine shaft, when the owner of the property saw them and attempted to chase them away.
Ramphora says the illegal miners refused to leave and threatened the owner and mine security personnel with firearms.
They argued and a shoot-out between the parties ensued.
The owner, whose Ford Ranger bakkie was damaged in the shooting, then called the SAPS for assistance.
Ramphora says a small operation was coordinated involving the SAPS Public Order Policing, the EMPD, the SAPS K9 and Flying Squad units.
The police helicopter was also dispatched for assistance.
Ramphora says the security guards claim the illegal miners used automatic firearms.
A case of attempted murder, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition was opened at the police station.
The four suspects, aged between 24 and 27 years old, will appear in court soon.
Ramphora says it is important to maintain peace in the area and the operation will continue.
The Flying Squad, K9 and Crime Prevention units will monitor the situation throughout the day.
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