The suspects were captured on July 14, 2022, a Thursday. This follows the discovery of a gang of about 100 “zama zamas,” or illegal miners, close to hole No. 4 on the Vaal Reefs near Stilfontein. Some of the illegal miners are said to have fired shots at the Specialised Services Group (SSG) security personnel. The latter returned fire, wounding one suspect. He was discovered with a Beretta semi-automatic shotgun and 18 rounds of ammunition.
Following the event, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the Dr. Kenneth Kaunda District Illicit Mining Task Team members were activated. In the end, the operation resulted in the detention of three further suspects and the seizure of two weapons and ammunition. While the rest of the “zama zamas” fled on foot, the injured suspect was taken to the hospital where he is now being guarded by police. The DPCI is conducting an investigation into the situation.
Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the North West Provincial Commissioner, praised all the participants and security personnel for their cooperation, which resulted in the arrest and seizure of the firearms and ammunition. He issued a stern warning that illegal economic activity would not be tolerated and that anybody who engaged in it would face harsh punishment.