P45-M mining equipment seized

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Police and mining authorities seized approximately P45 million worth of heavy equipment, apprehended six individuals and rescued a minor during an operation against suspected illegal mining activities at Sitio Pin-as, Barangay Tuburan, Cagayan de Oro City, at around 4 a.m. on 6 November.

Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) regional director Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. said the operation involved personnel from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, Regional Intelligence Division 10 and Police Station 8, who provided security assistance to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in implementing Republic Act 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

The operation also sought to enforce the existing moratorium on mining activities in identified areas of Opol, Misamis Oriental, and along the Iponan River.

The six apprehended individuals, aged 18 to 43, were residents of Agusan del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao City, Surigao del Norte, Surigao City and the Dinagat Islands.

Authorities initially seized 12 excavators, three dump trucks, two trommels, two tow trucks, two generators and one crawler truck, with an estimated combined value of P45 million.

Initial investigation disclosed that the suspected illegal mining activity was allegedly being conducted under the guise of a quarrying operation and was reportedly facilitated and financed by a Chinese national.

Babagay emphasized the importance of sustained inter-agency cooperation in addressing illegal activities that threaten the environment and natural resources.

“We will continue to work closely with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and other concerned government agencies to ensure that activities involving our natural resources are conducted within the bounds of the law. Illegal mining will not be tolerated, especially when it threatens our environment, waterways, and the safety and welfare of our communities,” he said.