ILLEGAL mining is rife in Mzansi and zama zamas are everywhere conducting illegal mining activities in discontinued mines.
The cops are now out to bust zama zamas through Operation Vala.
Police spokeswoman Captain Neldah Sekgobela said an integrated illegal mining operation was conducted by the SAPS, SANDF and other law enforcement agencies in Primrose, Germiston, Ekurhuleni on Wednesday, 3 April.
"During the operation, 17 suspects were arrested for being undocumented and one for illegal mining (Act 50 of 1992) and also charged for being undocumented," said Neldah.
She said cops confiscated mining equipment, which included two cables with a Cremex blasting case, spades, a water pump, gas cylinders, and a cutting torch.
Deputy district commissioner Brigadier Lebohang Machakela commended the cops, SANDF and other law enforcement for their efforts.
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Residents said illegal mining poses a serious danger to their area.
Thanda Baloyi (57) from Pimrose in Germiston said cops should crack down on illegal mining. “Not only does the illegal activity have a major impact on the environment, but it is also damaging infrastructure and assets, chasing away businesses and putting the lives and health of residents at risk.
"We cannot accept such activities happening in our area. We, as the community, have informed cops when we see activities continue happening in our area," said Thanda.
Another resident, Maria Mpela (42) said a lot needs to be done by cops and government to fight illegal mining.
She said illegal shafts and holes made by these miners should be closed.
“Sometimes they use them to hide from the police. They go underneath the ground for days with the food they cook and liquor. They don’t have proper infrastructure to keep the ground intact and there is a risk of floods and our houses collapsing," she said.
