JOHANNESBURG – Two members of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) have died after falling into an abandoned mine while chasing illegal miners in Roodepoort, Gauteng.
The soldiers were taking part in Operation Prosper, an anti-illegal mining operation in Gauteng province.
Announcing the tragedy, the SANDF said: “On Friday, July 17, 2026, we regret to confirm the deaths of two members during an operation to combat illegal mining under Operation Prosper.”
SANDF further added: “At approximately 6am this morning, SANDF personnel dispatched to the CRD mine in West Johannesburg observed miners suspected of illegal mining emerging from an underground factory.
“The chase continued into the tunnel, during which the two members tragically fell into an open, abandoned vertical shaft.”
The Ministry of Police expressed its deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased members, saying they were brave public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
“The loss of these brave soldiers is a devastating blow to the security forces and the nation as a whole,” Minister Kacharia said.
“We salute their dedication, commitment and dedicated service in the fight against illegal mining and organized crime.”
Lieutenant General Pullen Dimpane, acting national commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), expressed his “deepest condolences”.
Lieutenant General Dinpaeng also paid tribute to SANDF personnel who continue to work with SAPS to combat illegal mining activities across the country.
“SANDF members are valuable partners in Operation Prosper and other crime-fighting operations,” said the Acting Police Commissioner.
“Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the work they dedicated their lives to continues.”
Despite this tragic loss, Operation Prosper continues to record significant successes in disrupting illegal mining activities and dismantling criminal organizations operating in abandoned and active mines in Gauteng.
During today's operation in Gauteng, 20 illegal miners were arrested, 19 of whom were foreigners living in South Africa illegally.
These include nine Mozambican nationals, six Zimbabwean nationals, three Malawi nationals and one Lesotho national. A South African national was also arrested.
From 1 April 2026 to 30 June 2026, a joint operation carried out by SAPS and SANDF in Gauteng resulted in the arrest of 793 suspects, including 595 who had entered the country illegally.
The joint operation also resulted in the seizure of a significant amount of illegal mining equipment, including generators and fenduka, as well as 973,859 grams of gold-bearing materials.
The Ministry of Police reaffirmed the government's determination to intensify the fight against illegal mining and bring to justice those responsible for plundering the country's mineral resources.
Minister Cachalia said: “The sacrifices made by our members and soldiers will not be in vain. We remain steadfast in our efforts to eradicate illegal mining and protect South Africa's economic interests from criminal organizations.”
SAPS pays tribute to these fallen heroes who put their country first. May their souls rest in eternal peace and may their loved ones find strength and comfort during this difficult time.
