Of 717 suspects arrested in July, about 212 were for illegal mining.
Police provided a detailed account of arrests, including from two weeks ago, when more than 150 suspects were arrested at Losberg Kloof Mine in Westonaria.
About twelve (12) more were arrested in Odendaalsrus, Allanridge, Theunissen, and Welkom, for the same offence.
Joint operational teams recovered and confiscated 14 commercial explosives, five explosives accessories, one landmine, Gold-bearing material, precious metals, and more.
Mining Equipment seized included 59 generators, 28 jackhammers, 26 steelers crushers, 14 stampers, 11 water pumps, nine oxygen cylinders and six phendukas.
The police (SAPS) said they worked closely with the army (SANDF).
The remaining arrests were for drug-related offences, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, illegal possession of ammunition, the contravention of the Immigration Act and the possession of dangerous weapons.
Picture: Supplied