More than 107 Lesotho nationals, 56 Mozambicans, four Zimbabwean nationals and 21 South Africans were arrested for illegal mining in Westonaria. Image: SAPS
Zimbabwe
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South Africa
Westonaria mine raid: 198 suspected illegal miners arrested
A coordinated law enforcement operation at Losberg Kloof Mine in Westonaria has led to the arrest of 198 suspected illegal miners, most of whom are foreign nationals allegedly in South Africa without valid documentation.
A total of 198 suspected illegal miners were arrested during a joint law enforcement operation at Losberg Kloof Mine in Westonaria on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, as authorities intensified efforts to combat illegal mining and cross-border crime.
Speaking at the scene, Gauteng Deputy Police Commissioner, Major General Fred Kekana, outlined the nationalities of those arrested. The group includes 107 Lesotho nationals, 56 Mozambicans, four Zimbabwean nationals and 21 South Africans.
Kekana said that all of the foreign nationals arrested are believed to be in South Africa illegally, as none were able to produce valid documentation. They are expected to face charges relating to contraventions of the country's immigration laws, in addition to any other offences that may arise from the investigation.
Police also confirmed that one of the South African suspects was found in possession of ammunition and will face an additional charge.
The operation, known as Operation Prosper, was carried out by the Gauteng Police in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Sibanye Protection Services. It forms part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on illegal mining activities and disrupt transnational criminal networks operating in the area.
