23 Illegal Foreigners Arrested in Gauteng Operation PROSPER as SANDF and SAPS Confiscate Drugs, Cash and Gold-Bearing Mining Equipment in Eldorado Park
Between 05 and 14 June 2026, Operation PROSPER was conducted in Eldorado Park, Gauteng Province, focusing on illicit mining and anti-criminality. The Solomon Mahlangu Regiment’s Bravo Company, deployed under the Joint Tactical Headquarters Gauteng, worked jointly with the South African Police Service Anti-Gang Unit during the operation.
The operation included stop-and-search actions targeting persons and buildings. It formed part of coordinated efforts by the South African National Defence Force and SAPS to address illegal activities in the area. The joint teams focused on disrupting illicit mining operations and associated criminal conduct linked to drugs and illegal presence.
A total of 23 illegal immigrants were arrested, along with three individuals found in possession of drugs. Authorities also confiscated R1,330.00 during the operation. Seized items included gold-bearing equipment such as picks, chainsaws, stamp rods and pods, spades, steel balls and phendukas, alongside drugs including 18 Mandrax packets, 15g crystal meth and 1g nyaope.
The South African National Defence Force, in support of SAPS, stated its commitment to restoring dignity and safety in communities through sustained anti-criminality operations. Operation PROSPER remains part of ongoing joint efforts to combat illicit mining and related crimes in Gauteng Province and strengthen law enforcement visibility.