Members of the SANDF continued operations at Rietvallei on the West Rand on Friday, with several arrests linked to illegal mining. A temporary illegal processing plant was dismantled and equipment seized. Residents have welcomed the soldiers' deployment, stating it will enhance security.
On Friday, members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) continued their operations against illegal mining at Rietvallei on the West Rand. Several individuals were arrested in connection with these activities, and a temporary illegal processing plant was dismantled. Equipment believed to be used by Zama Zamas, including welding machines, generators, and shovels, was also seized.
Residents of the area have welcomed the deployment of soldiers, stating that it will improve their security. They have lost faith in local police officers, whom they accuse of being on the payroll of illegal miners. One resident said: “I am happy the soldiers are here. Because in the past with the police it made no difference. When we rent out our yards to Zama Zamas for them to work here, the police would also come and collect bribes from them. We charge Zama Zamas R1000 per month for them to work from our yards. They do not stay here. They just come to work and go.”
This operation is part of broader efforts to address illegal mining in the region, where Zama Zamas engage in informal and unlawful gold extraction. The local community hopes the SANDF's presence will provide a more effective response than previous police interventions.
