Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has conveyed his heartfelt condolences following the deaths of two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers who lost their lives during an anti-illegal mining operation in western Johannesburg.
The two soldiers died on Friday after falling down a mine shaft at the abandoned CRD Mine in Florida while taking part in Operation Prosper, a joint security initiative targeting illegal mining and organised crime.
Speaking on behalf of the Gauteng Provincial Government, Lesufi paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing them as dedicated public servants who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting South Africans.
“Our law enforcement officers serve the people of South Africa with unwavering courage, discipline and selflessness, often placing themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities. Their sacrifice in the pursuit of law and order will never be forgotten. We honour their service, salute their bravery, and remain forever grateful for their commitment to our country,” said Lesufi.
The tragedy comes as authorities continue to intensify operations against illegal mining syndicates operating across Gauteng. Just last week, more than 200 people, most of them undocumented foreign nationals, were arrested during a law enforcement operation at a gold mine shaft west of Johannesburg.
Operation Prosper was authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to strengthen the South African Police Service’s efforts to combat organised crime, illegal mining and gangsterism in Gauteng through the deployment of SANDF members.
According to the provincial government, the joint operation has disrupted organised criminal networks, increased law enforcement visibility in hotspot areas and improved coordination between security agencies in the fight against illegal mining.
Lesufi reaffirmed the Gauteng Provincial Government’s support for the SANDF, SAPS and other law enforcement agencies, saying they remain committed to dismantling organised criminal syndicates and restoring law and order across the province.
“We owe it to the memory of these brave soldiers to remain steadfast in our resolve. Their deaths must not be in vain. Their sacrifice strengthens our determination to rid our province of illegal mining and organised crime. We will not relent in our efforts to restore law and order, protect the people of Gauteng and ensure that those responsible for these criminal activities are brought to justice,” he said.
