A week-long joint operation targeting illegal mining and gang violence across Gauteng has resulted in 36 arrests and the seizure of 16 unlicensed firearms and more than 800 rounds of live ammunition.

The South African Police Service and the South African National Defence Force conducted Operation Prosper across the West Rand, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni between 25 and 31 May, recovering illegal mining equipment including phendukas, gas cylinders, generators and steel pot crushers.

Among those arrested were several illegal immigrants, authorities confirmed.

The intelligence-driven intervention forms part of a national initiative announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa to intensify efforts against criminal networks linked to illegal mining and gang violence.

Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said the operation aims to uphold the rule of law, with SAPS leading enforcement while the SANDF acts as a force multiplier.

“Police and soldiers have tightened the net on gangs and illegal miners in Gauteng and in other places in Gauteng. The intelligence-driven operation is targeting gang violence and illegal mining across the West Rand, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni,” Nevhuhulwi said.

The operation targets the disruption of criminal networks and aims to restore stability in communities affected by gang crime and illegal mining activities.

Law enforcement teams will remain on the ground as part of ongoing efforts to remove illegal firearms, arrest suspects and dismantle criminal operations.

Police have urged communities to assist by reporting criminal activities at their nearest police stations, calling Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or sending anonymous tip-offs through the MySAPS App.

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