An intelligence-driven operation led to the discovery of a house used as an illegal gold processing “laboratory” in Barberton on Thursday, 23 April 2026, police said.
At the facility, authorities found chemicals, gold processing equipment, and large quantities of gold-bearing material. Two unlicensed firearms with ammunition were also recovered at the scene.
Police attached to the Crime Intelligence Unit received information about illegal mining activities taking place at one of the houses in Barberton. The information was operationalised, and officers searched the house. It was discovered that the house had been used for the illegal processing, melting, and refining of gold.
During the operation, police arrested two suspects, aged 51 and 52. They have been charged with contravention of the Precious Metals Act and possession of unlicensed firearms, among other crimes.
The arrested suspects are expected to appear at the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 28 April 2026. Police said more arrests are imminent as the investigation continues.