Illegal Mining Crackdown: Six Arrested, Rifles And Explosives Seized In Magaliesberg Raid

A joint police operation has led to the arrest of six illegal miners and the recovery of rifles, ammunition, and explosive materials at the Protea Mine in Blaauwbank, Magaliesberg, on Friday, 24 October 2025.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), members from the Magaliesberg Police and several Search and Rescue K9 units launched the operation following a complaint about illegal mining activities in the area.

Armed Suspects Caught After Illegal Mining Crackdown

Police said the suspects attempted to flee on foot when officers arrived at the scene but were swiftly apprehended.

The team recovered four rifles and 343 rounds of ammunition, as well as mining equipment, including generators, jackhammers, detonation cords with blasting caps, and power gel used for underground blasting operations.

Joint Operation Brings Major Breakthrough

The operation was carried out by members of SAPS Magaliesberg, Search and Rescue Bronkhorstspruit K9, Soshanguve K9, and Benoni K9 units — highlighting the coordinated effort to curb illegal mining across Gauteng and North West provinces.

Police confirmed that the six suspects will appear before the Magaliesberg Magistrate’s Court soon on charges related to illegal mining, possession of unlicensed firearms, and explosives.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Three Suspected Kidnappers Gunned Down In Parktown Police Shootout

Authorities praised the swift action and coordination of the teams involved, reaffirming SAPS’s commitment to dismantling illegal mining syndicates that threaten both community safety and the economy.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky