BUTUAN CITY — Authorities arrested 10 people last Monday afternoon for alleged illegal mining in Barangay Bilay, police said Tuesday.

Officers with the Butuan City Mobile Force Company caught the suspects in the act of extracting gold ore and other minerals, according to Lt. Col. Randie Azote, the unit’s force commander.

The raid was launched following tips from local residents regarding unauthorized mining in the area.

“We also recognize the full support of the barangay officials during the operations, especially in the inventory of the confiscated mining paraphernalia,” Azote said.

Police seized several items during the operation, including basins, dishpans, sluice boxes and motorcycles.

The City Environment and Natural Resources Office and other units of the Butuan City Police Office assisted in the raid.

Authorities said that the 10 suspects face charges for violating the People’s Small-Scale Mining Act, or Republic Act 7076. They are also accused of violating Department of Environment and Natural Resources Administrative Order 2022-03 and Butuan City Ordinance 7244-2025.

The suspects are being held at the Butuan City Police Office while formal charges are prepared for court filing.