South Africa Deploys 3,300 Army Personnel in Nationwide Operation Against Illegal Mining

Operation set to run until April 2024, part of broader 'Operation Prosper' initiative, as country strives to control widespread illegal mining estimated to cost billions each year, amid issues of poverty, unemployment, and rising crime.

• South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorized the assignment of 3,300 army personnel to work with the police in a nationwide effort against illegal mining. Operation Prosper, as it's known, is set to run until April 2024 and aims to instill law and order.
• Illegal mining has massively impacted South Africa's economy, causing an estimated loss of billions of dollars each year. The Minerals Council estimates that legal mines lose up to 7 billion rand ($376 million) annually due to this underground industry.
• The initiative responds to the long-term threat of illegal mining, facilitated by poverty, unemployment and crime. The issue has also contributed to a rise in gang violence and territorial disputes as individuals and groups compete for valuable mining sites.
• Every year, thousands of illegal miners, known as 'zama zamas', risk their lives working in approximately 6,000 abandoned gold mines across South Africa. Numerous deaths have occurred due to unsafe conditions, including gas explosions.
• Alongside economic repercussions, illegal mining has raised environmental and health concerns. Industrial mining and subsequent informal activity have fostered poverty and health problems in surrounding areas, emphasizing the urgency of the current operation.

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