A kingpin who was regarded as dangerous in illegal mining activities, was fatally wounded, in Carletonville, on Sunday.
Police headed to his house, during an intelligence- led operation to disrupt illegal mining.
The police said the suspect responded by pointing an AK-47 assault rifle at their members.
Police said in a statement, “they were compelled to respond with force, which resulted in the suspect sustaining fatal gunshot wounds.”
In addition, an AK-47 rifle and 125 rounds of AK-47 ammunition were seized at the scene.
Picture: SAPS newsroom.