WESTONARIA, GAUTENG — Law enforcement agencies conducting Operation Karabo Prosper have announced significant Westonaria arrests following an integrated tactical operation aimed at dismantling illegal mining syndicates and criminal networks in the region.
On Monday, November 9, 2026, Gauteng police collaborated with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and Sibanye Protection Services to execute the multi-agency sweep. The specialized task force comprised members of the West Rand, Johannesburg, and Sedibeng Tactical Response Teams (TRT), alongside the Drone Unit, Crime Intelligence, and the West Rand District Intervention Team.
During the operation, authorities apprehended a 35-year-old Lesotho national who was in possession of a rifle and 17 live rounds of ammunition. According to the Gauteng police spokesperson, the recovered firearm was previously reported stolen in connection with a house robbery case registered in Krugersdorp.
Two additional suspects, both 26-year-old Lesotho nationals, were also taken into custody during the operation. One individual was arrested for the possession of ammunition and for being in the country illegally. The second suspect was detained for possessing suspected gold-bearing material, in addition to the charge of being in the country illegally.
Furthermore, operatives recovered 29 bags containing suspected gold-bearing material that had been abandoned at the scene.
The three suspects are scheduled to appear before the Westonaria Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Authorities confirmed that Operation Karabo Prosper remains active as police and partner law enforcement agencies intensify their ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and related criminal activities throughout Gauteng.
