Police operation into illegal mining expected to last three years

PRETORIA - One other crime that continues to give the police a headache is illegal mining.

The zama zama operations have seen an alarming increase of complaints from residents living around disused mines.

But National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola says they're hot on heels on the matter.

READ: Illegal mining | Zama zamas causing costly infrastructure damage

The operation into zama zamas is expected to last for three years.

"We've already seen a lot of successes," he said.

"From Tuesday, the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies have arrested more than 230 zama zamas.

READ: Illegal mining | Over 6,000 abandoned holes nationwide

"They've again confiscated equipment.

"The operation is continuing and we are on the ground," Masemola said.

Masemola hailed his officers for bravely fighting illegal mining.