Authorities seized around P3.6 million worth of mineral ores and equipment in a series of anti-illegal mining operations in Opol, Misamis Oriental and Iligan City.

According to the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), the operations were launched as part of the police’s intensified campaign against illegal mining activities in the region.

A joint operation in Sitio Kapisahan in Barangay Mainit, Iligan City on October 22, 2025, led to the arrest of a 36-year-old construction worker from Tagum City for allegedly loading gold-bearing waste materials.

During the operation, operatives confiscated seven rod mills and other mining equipment worth around P2.5 million.

PRO-10 said the alleged operator identified as alias “Gigi,” 26, escaped.

Police added that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) will still have to verify the mineral content of the items seized.

The next day, personnel of the Opol Municipal Police Station and the Task Force Kalikasan ug Kahusay disovered up to 80 sacks of suspected mineral ores abandoned in Sitio Tanawon, Barangay Limonda worth around P133,600.

Police are still investigating to identify the owner of the items seized.

On October 24, 2025, authorities confiscated five rod mills, electric motor, and five sacks of mineral ores worth around P1 million in another operation in Barangay Mainit, Iligan City.

PRO-10 said the operator identified as alias “Vern,” a barangay tanod and his accomplice escaped.

“Our sustained operations against illegal mining reflect our firm commitment to environmental protection and law enforcement. We will continue working closely with our partners to ensure accountability and preserve Northern Mindanao’s natural wealth,” PRO-10 Director, Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano said.