The Vala Umgodi operation by members of the SAPS and SANDF has led to the arrest of more than 800 suspected illegal miners in Stilfontein, near Klerksdorp in the North West.
According to the police, the zama zamas have been resurfacing from underground at an old Magaret Shaft since the past weekend following the closure of the routes which were used as conduits to deliver food and water to them.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said authorities in the province are intensifying their operations to ensure that illegal mining activities are dealt a blow.
Additional 340 illegal miners resurfaced on Monday night and were immediately placed on arrest.
On Tuesday, about 269 zama zamas resurfaced and police are adamant that the number is going to increase, as they suspect that there are still illegal miners underground.
Fifty-five illegal miners who were arrested at the weekend, appeared before the Stilfontein Magistrates court on Monday, and the matter was postponed to Tuesday, where they were joined by 340 of their colleagues.
According to Mokgwabone, most of the suspects are illegal foreigners from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi.
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya has commended the teams, encouraged them not to back down and ensure that the rule of law is restored.