EMPD deployed to Springs over illegal mining activities
Camray Clarke
15 February 2026 | 15:12According to Ekurhuleni's head of communications, Phakamile Mbengashe, officers are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of residents.

An EMPD officer and vehicle. Picture: Orrin Singh/EWN
Ekurhuleni Metro Police officers have been deployed to an area near the Gugulethu informal settlement in Springs, where illegal mining activities are taking place.
According to Ekurhuleni's head of communications, Phakamile Mbengashe, officers are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of residents.
He added that the matter has been escalated to the South African Police Service for further action.
“The matter has also been formally escalated to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources as mining regulation and criminal investigations fall within their mandates," Mbengashe said. "We are working in a coordinated intergovernmental manner to ensure that due process is followed and that ultimately the rule of law is upheld.”
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