More than 100 explosives and makeshift tools used for illegal mining were seized when authorities arrested six suspected illegal miners, or “zama zamas”, at a site close to the N12, near Cloverdene in Benoni on Monday.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department’s (EMPD) Bronberg precinct, the Equestrian Unit, Home Affairs immigration officials, Crystal Park police, the Task Force, the Explosives Unit, and others conducted the raid.
EMPD media liaison officer Lerato Monyane said police officials suspected that unlawful activity had been taking place in the area and were able to go to the scene on Monday.
During the raid, they found 125 explosives and tools used for illegal mining. They also discovered an illegal shebeen and confiscated 126 bottles of liquor, Monyane said.
“The suspects are being detained at Crystal Park police station, where they are charged with illegal mining and possession of explosives and [they]will appear in the Benoni Magistrate’s Court soon,” Monyane added.
Those who were arrested were aged between 19 and 35.
