Authorities said the arrests were carried out during coordinated operations targeting suspected illegal miners, known locally as zama zamas, as well as individuals accused of supporting their activities through the supply of equipment, transport and illicit trade in minerals.
Police said those arrested face charges including illegal mining, contraventions of immigration laws, unlawful possession of gold-bearing material and explosives, and possession of unlicensed firearms.
The operation forms part of the government’s broader campaign to combat illegal mining, which authorities say is linked to organised crime, violent turf battles and billions of rand in annual losses to the country’s mining sector.
Officials said security forces seized mining equipment, suspected gold-bearing material, explosives and other items believed to have been used in illegal mining operations.
South Africa has stepped up enforcement following a series of deadly incidents at disused mines, where illegal miners often work in dangerous underground conditions controlled by heavily armed criminal networks.
The crackdown has drawn mixed reactions, with mining companies welcoming tougher enforcement while human rights organisations have urged authorities to ensure operations respect the rights of suspects and distinguish between organised criminal groups and vulnerable migrants driven into illegal mining by poverty.
The government has pledged to continue operations against illegal mining networks, describing the activity as a serious threat to public safety, the economy and the country’s mining industry.
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