BUTUAN CITY – Police arrested 12 individuals for allegedly conducting illegal mining operations near a cemetery in Manticao town, Misamis Oriental province on Friday night, Jan. 17.
Police Regional Office 10-Regional Public Information Office chief Police Major Joann G. Navarro identified the suspects as Bos Eln, Ka Jom, Em, Louie, Ben, Jeg, Mik, Jim, Rod, Orl, Rider, and Gong.
“The operation was immediately initiated after Manticao Municipal Police Station (MPS) received a tip from a confidential informant regarding an ongoing operation and hauling activity involving sacks of minerals near a cemetery,” Navarro said.
Police coordinated the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for the operation.
Some of the suspects were intercepted transporting sacks of minerals aboard a Toyota Hilux, two Nissan Navarra, and four tricabs.
Navarro said the suspects failed to present required documentation for transporting the minerals and were arrested for violating Republic Act No. 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995.
Seized from them were 133 sacks of minerals and vehicles. The estimated value of the minerals will be determined by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
The seized items and suspects were taken to the Opol MPS for proper disposition.
PRO-10 Director Police Brig. Gen. Jaysen C. de Guzman commended the operating units and emphasized the importance of curbing illegal mining operations and protection of the natural resources.
“We will continue to intensify our efforts to ensure that illegal mining activities are eradicated, and those involved are held accountable,” he said. “I urge everyone to immediately inform the authorities if they know any illegal mining activities in their locality.”