South African security agencies have conducted a joint anti-crime and anti-illicit mining operation in the Crystal Park informal settlement in Gauteng Province, resulting in dozens of arrests and the demolition of hundreds of illegal structures. The operation, carried out from May 7 to May 10, 2026, involved members of the Solomon Mahlangu Regiment’s Bravo and …
South African security forces arrest 48 illegal immigrants in anti-mining operation
South African security agencies have conducted a joint anti-crime and anti-illicit mining operation in the Crystal Park informal settlement in Gauteng Province, resulting in dozens of arrests and the demolition of hundreds of illegal structures.
The operation, carried out from May 7 to May 10, 2026, involved members of the Solomon Mahlangu Regiment’s Bravo and Charlie Companies working together with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department.
According to officials, the exercise focused on combating illegal mining activities and criminality within the settlement.
Authorities said the operation included stop-and-search activities, inspections of premises, and the demolition of illegal dwellings allegedly used as hideouts by illegal miners. Security agencies noted that the structures posed a significant threat to the safety of the local community.
At the end of the operation, security personnel had searched 571 individuals, 285 vehicles, and 542 premises. A total of 532 illegal dwellings were demolished.
Officials also checked 45 passports and arrested 48 undocumented immigrants for allegedly contravening South Africa’s Immigration Act.
During the operation, authorities confiscated several items believed to be linked to illegal mining activities, including generators, crushing balls, gas bottles, motors, stampers, cutting torches, and steel pots described as gold-bearing equipment.
Explosive materials, including connector capped fuses, blasting cartridges, and detonating cords, were also seized.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF), which supported the operation, said it remains committed to working with law enforcement agencies to combat criminal activities in communities across the country.
The operation details were provided in a statement jointly prepared by Warrant Officer Class 2 Letsebe Ramaboa and Corporal Sindi Ntayingane of the Joint Tactical Headquarters Gauteng Province Operational Communication Office.
