Police ministry mourns SANDF members killed during illegal mining operation

The Ministry of Police has paid tribute to South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members who lost their lives during an operation against illegal mining in Gauteng on Friday.

According to preliminary information, the soldiers were taking part in Operation Prosper when they were pursuing suspected illegal miners through an underground tunnel. During the operation, they reportedly fell into an abandoned mine shaft. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

Police Minister Firoz Cachalia, Deputy Ministers Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, together with Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, conveyed their condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the fallen soldiers.

"The loss of these courageous soldiers is a devastating blow to the security cluster and the nation at large. We honour their commitment, dedication and selfless service in the fight against illegal mining and organised crime," said Cachalia.

Lieutenant General Dimpane described the SANDF as a vital partner in the country's efforts to combat illegal mining.

"SANDF members have been invaluable partners in Operation Prosper and other crime-fighting initiatives. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten. We remain committed to ensuring that the work they dedicated their lives to continues," she said.

Despite the tragedy, authorities said Operation Prosper continues to make progress in tackling illegal mining syndicates.

During Friday's operation, police arrested 20 suspected illegal miners, including 19 foreign nationals believed to be in the country illegally. Those arrested include nine Mozambicans, six Zimbabweans, three Malawians, one Lesotho national and one South African.

Police also revealed that joint SAPS and SANDF operations conducted between 1 April and 30 June 2026 resulted in the arrest of 793 suspects, including 595 undocumented foreign nationals. Law enforcement officers also seized illegal mining equipment, including generators and phendukas, as well as 973,859 grams of gold-bearing material.

The Ministry of Police reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against illegal mining and bringing those responsible for exploiting the country's mineral resources to justice.