Police in Westonaria arrested 23 undocumented foreign nationals who are suspected to be involved in illegal mining activities in the area, following a shootout.
On Tuesday, 15 November 2022, police and security guards from a local mine reacted to a shootout incident at a dumping site, whereby three men were found injured, with gunshot wounds.
Preliminary investigation suggests a rivalry fight between groups of illegal miners. Further investigation resulted in the arrests of 23 undocumented foreign nationals near the scene of the crime.
One of the arrested suspects was further charged with attempted murder and unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm after a firearm was found in his possession.
Suspects are expected to appear before Westonaria Magistrates’ Court in due course.
Police in the West Rand arrest suspected illegal miners following a shootout https://t.co/9LARx1iBfK#ArriveAlive #IllegalMiners #Shootout @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/irZ4Ak5g8h
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) November 17, 2022