RESIDENTS, who live not far from a mine dump, have always complained about mine dust, which they say affects their health.
This as zama zamas dig for gold dust.
But their illegal activities came to an abrupt halt when Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) cops swooped on them in Tsakani over the weekend.
In a massive joint sting, EMPD's Intervention Unit, SAPS Illegal Mining Unit and Quattro Security cornered a group of men digging for gold.
About 33 foreign nationals, aged between 18 and 46, were handcuffed.
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EMPD spokeswoman Colonel Kelebogile Thepa said officers arrived unannounced at the known hotspot with tactical precision, catching the zama zamas red-handed.
The site was a mini-factory of illegal activity.
Police seized phendukas, water pumps and gas cylinders, picks, spades and hammers.
When the law asked for IDs or passports, the suspects had nothing to show.
The group of zama zamas are being charged for illegal mining and for violating the Immigration Act.
"The operation was a success in disrupting active illegal mining in the area," said EMPD.
The 33 suspects are expected to face the music in the Brakpan Magistrates Court soon.
