Similar raids have been previously conducted by police in the same informal settlements, which are reportedly highly concentrated with illegal mining activities.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said a total of 36 phendukas, eight gas bottles, five gas regulators and a cutting torch were seized during the current operation.
“ Scores of suspected illegal miners are said to have fled into the bushy river banks, upon the arrival of the men and women in blue,” said Mdhluli.
Provicnial Police Commissioner, Lt-General Semakaleng Manamela, said the police will continue the disruptive activities until all illegal mining activities are totally annihilated.
