CIDG nabs 5 for illegal quarrying in Negros Oriental

The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group arrested five suspects in unauthorized mineral extraction activities in Negros Oriental on Friday.

According to the CIDG, suspects Segundino, Elizar, Armando, Romel, and Reymart Segundino were arrested in a joint OPLAN KALIKASAN operation in Barangay Isugan, Bacong, Negros Oriental.

They were allegedly caught engaging in the unauthorized exploration, extraction, and disposition of mineral resources and did not have the necessary mining rights, permits, or agreements from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and other proper authorities.

Three dump trucks with one cubic meter of sand minerals, three cubic meters of boulder minerals, and mining equipment worth P1.3 million were also seized in the operation.

Meanwhile, the CIDG reiterated that all mineral resources within the territory and exclusive economic zone of the Republic of the Philippines are owned by the State.

“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report all violations and illegal activities concerning our environment, such as illegal mining, illegal quarrying, illegal logging, and related crimes. Rest assured that your CIDG will take swift action,” said CIDG Director Police Major General Nicolas Torre III. — Jiselle Anne Casucian/VBL, GMA Integrated News