Two suspects were arrested in possession of explosives during an illegal mining disruptive operation led by the MMC for Public Safety Dr Mgcini Tshwaku together with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Acting Chief of Police Angie Mokasi, JMPD officers, Gauteng Traffic Police chopper, SAPS Anti Kidnapping Unit and private security in Creswell Park, Roodepoort.
On Saturday, 19 August 2023, the operational team proceeded to an identified illegal mining hotspot in Creswell Park, and upon arrival, illegal miners immediately fled on foot jumping into deep holes that they had dug.
While searching the surrounding area one female, a Zimbabwean national was found hiding in the bushes with explosives in her possession.
The operational team continued with the search and one male, a Lesotho national who had fled to a nearby house was arrested as he was also found in possession of explosives.
The SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit was summoned to the scene and the explosives were collected.
The duo was arrested and detained at Roodepoort SAPS for possession of explosives and Contravention of the Immigration Act (Ilegal Immigrant).
Equipment such as phendukas and sand used by illegal miners were seized and booked in at the police station.
Issued by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Communication Unit
Illegal mining suspects arrested and explosives uncovered in Creswell Park, Roodepoort. https://t.co/yuJdBg9wbj #ArriveAlive #IllegalMining #Explosives @JoburgMPD pic.twitter.com/7QxnoDGSLW
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) August 20, 2023
