12 arrested for illegal quarrying, mining in Rizal

Twelve individuals were arrested by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation's Environmental Crime Division for their alleged involvement in illegal quarrying and mining operations in Rodriguez, Rizal.

According to a report on "24 Oras" on Thursday, NBI-EnCD agents arrested the suspects after receiving a complaint that a company has been conducting illegal quarrying activities since 2019 in the area.

NBI-EnCD chief Jun Carpeso said those arrested were with issued permits but were conducting quarrying operations outside it.

"This company has been extracting gravel and sand despite only having a landfill permit," NBI-EnCD chief Jun Carpeso said in mixed Filipino and English.

Seized from the suspects were heavy equipment.

Those arrested will face charges for violation of the Philippine Mining Act of 1995. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News