Illegal mining kingpin shot dead in Carletonville police operation

A wanted and dangerous illegal mining kingpin has been shot dead during an intelligence-driven operation by the National Intervention Unit (NIU) in Carletonville, Gauteng.

The operation was carried out on Sunday as part of ongoing efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS) to dismantle illegal mining syndicates and curb violence linked to the illegal mining trade in the area.

According to SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, NIU members went to a residence where the suspect was believed to be staying.

Police announced their presence and identified themselves as officers, but the suspect allegedly responded by pointing an AK-47 assault rifle at them.

The officers then responded with force, fatally wounding the suspect.

An AK-47 rifle and 125 rounds of ammunition were recovered at the scene.

Police said the deceased was known as one of the prominent illegal mining kingpins operating in Carletonville and was allegedly central to the ongoing conflict between two rival illegal mining groups in the area.

The SAPS said it would continue with intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling illegal mining networks, disrupting criminal syndicates and restoring law and order in communities affected by illegal mining and related violence.