30 arrested for illegal mining in Pantukan, Davao de Oro

Nearly 30 individuals were arrested in connection with an illegal mining site in a mountainous area in Pantukan, Davao de Oro.

According to Emil Sumangil’s exclusive report on “24 Oras” on Thursday, the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau raided the quarters of people engaged in illegal mining.

“The area was not covered by any valid mining permits and was not included in any declared Minahang Bayan. It was covered by a cease and desist order issued by the MGB 11,” said CIDG Region 11 provincial officer Police Major General Gerald Birung.

Authorities also found an underground tunnel where illegal miners pass through.

“According to our intel reports, matagal na itong nago-operate kahit may existing cease and desist order,” said Birung.

Among those arrested were four armed men who claimed to be National Bureau of Investigation agents. The NBI Region 11 confirmed to the CIDG Region 11 that the four are not affiliated with them.

“They were carrying in plain view numerous firearms and ammunition. At first, they were identifying and posing themselves as NBI agents, and even showed us identification cards,” said Birung.

Authorities also seized the firearms of the four arrested armed men.

The MGB said that the suspects are after gold.

“Meron silang mga tunnel na ginagawa. Posible kasi na hindi sila sumusunod sa mga tamang disenyo at sa mga tamang methodology. Kapag hindi po ito nare-regulate, yung occupational hazard is very present sa kanila,” said Beverley Brebante of the MGB.

(They are digging tunnels. It’s possible they aren't following proper designs and methodologies. When this isn't regulated, the occupational hazard for them is very present.)

GMA News is trying to seek comments from the arrested individuals.

The CIDG Region 11 said that criminal complaints for violation of the Philippine Mining Act are being prepared against the suspects. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/LDF, GMA News