Mapaballo Borotho
- Two suspected illegal miners were killed following a two-hour gunfight with police in Carletonville.
- Police seized unlicensed firearms and ammunition, while no officers were injured during the operation.
- Authorities continue surveillance in the area to arrest suspects who fled the scene.
A gunfight ensued between illegal miners, believed to be Basotho nationals, and police in Carletonville on Sunday, leaving two people dead.
Gauteng police were acting on information received indicating that illegal miners were in possession of a large consignment of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
“Upon arrival at the targeted house at around 04:00 on Sunday morning, members observed suspects attempting to flee by jumping out through windows. The suspects immediately opened fire on police officers and members responded accordingly,” said National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe.
Mathe says a prolonged exchange of gunfire, estimated to have lasted two hours, ensued between the suspects and police.
As a result of the confrontation, two illegal miners were declared dead at the scene. Two AK47 rifles, two pistols and ammunition were seized.
Despite the high risk and intensity of the operation, no police officers were injured.
“The suspects, identified as Basotho nationals, are assessed as extremely dangerous and pose a threat to public safety, as they showed no hesitation in engaging police. Police continue to conduct surveillance operations in the area to apprehend those who ran into the bushes,” said Mathe.
This incident comes after six Basotho nationals were killed in a taxi travelling from Johannesburg to Lesotho.
Details surrounding that incident remain vague, but police have arrested three Basotho nationals linked to the matter.
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