The Philippine National Police on Monday reported a major crackdown on illegal mining activities in Misamis Oriental, resulting in the arrest of 24 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, and the seizure of equipment and mineral ores worth more than P30.8 million.

PNP Acting Chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the operation underscores the police force’s continuing efforts to protect the environment and enforce Republic Act No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

“This accomplishment reflects our commitment not only to enforce the law but also to advocate for environmental stewardship. Makakalikasan tayo – hindi natin papayagan ang sinuman na sirain ang yaman ng bayan,” Nartatez said.

The operation was conducted in Sitio Bugwak, Barangay Tingalan, Opol, an area known for limited to no telecommunication signals.

It was spearheaded by the 2nd Misamis Oriental Provincial Mobile Force Company, with support from intelligence operatives of Regional Intelligence Division 10 and Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, in coordination with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission.

Acting on information from a confidential source, authorities apprehended individuals actively extracting minerals without the required legal permits. Those arrested included operators, laborers, welders and supervisors, among them two Chinese nationals allegedly overseeing the illegal mining activities.

Seized during the operation were two backhoes, two generators, six water pumps, two trommels, 30 sacks of mineral ores and two dump trucks.

All arrested individuals were informed of their constitutional rights in a language they understood and were provided access to medical evaluation in accordance with Republic Act No. 9745.

The seized equipment and mineral ores were inventoried in the presence of barangay officials and will be turned over to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 10 at the DENR Compound in Puntod, Cagayan de Oro City, for proper disposition.

“This operation is a strong reminder: illegal mining destroys not only the environment but also the lives of our future generations. The PNP will remain vigilant and resolute in protecting our natural resources as part of our core values. Let this serve as a warning to anyone who thinks of exploiting our environment unlawfully,” Nartatez said.