2 Koreans, 9 Filipinos nabbed for illegal mining in Butuan City —CIDG

Two Koreans and nine Filipinos were arrested for alleged illegal mining in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, the Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said in a statement released on Monday.

On March 21, the CIDG in coordination with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) conducted the operation in Barangay San Vicente.

According to the CIDG, the suspects were caught illegally transporting 500 sacks of suspected copper ore minerals worth around P700,000 using two vehicles.

“They are transporting the minerals without the necessary mining rights, permits, or agreements from the MGB and other proper authorities, thus, illegal,” the CIDG said.

Seized during the operation were mining tools, testing solutions, and other related materials used in illegal mineral extraction.

The suspects will face charges for illegal exploration, theft of minerals, and transporting minerals without permit under the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.

“Rest assured that your CIDG is relentless in catching all violators and criminal, local or foreign nationals alike, and steadfast in implementing all laws of the land” Torre said.

“We urge the  public to report all violations and illegal activities concerning our environment such as illegal fishing, illegal mining, illegal quarrying, illegal logging and related environmental crimes, and your CIDG will do the rest,” he added. — Joviland Rita/BM, GMA Integrated News