Gauteng Premier, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, has welcomed the announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2026 regarding the deployment of members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to support the South African Police Service (SAPS) in addressing the challenge of illegal mining. 

The Premier said the deployment is a decisive and necessary intervention to confront the growing threat posed by illegal mining activities, which undermine the rule of law, endanger communities, destroy critical infrastructure, and negatively impact the economy of the province. 

ìIllegal mining has become a serious criminal enterprise that threatens the safety of our communities, exploits vulnerable people, and causes extensive environmental damage. The deployment of soldiers to assist the police demonstrates governmentís commitment to restoring law and order and protecting communities,î said Premier Lesufi. 

He emphasised that Gauteng has been at the forefront of experiencing the consequences of illegal mining, including violent crime, unsafe abandoned mining shafts, and the intimidation of residents in affected areas. The Premier expressed confidence that the joint deployment will strengthen law enforcement capacity and enhance coordinated operations against illegal mining syndicates. 

Premier Lesufi further welcomed President Ramaphosaís leadership and reaffirmed the Gauteng Provincial Governmentís full support for the initiative. He confirmed that the province will work closely with national government, law enforcement agencies, and affected municipalities to ensure the success of the deployment. 

ìThe people of Gauteng deserve to live in safe communities free from criminality. We remain committed to doing everything possible, together with national government, to eradicate illegal mining and its associated crimes,î the Premier said. 

INFO SUPPLIED.