Two foreigners and three Filipinos were arrested while several mining equipment were seized in an anti-illegal mining operation in Barangay Guinhalinan, Barobo, Surigao del Sur.

Police said the operation was carried out by the enforcement division of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Caraga (DENR-13) and various police units from February 4 until early morning on February 5, 2026.

During the operation, three foreigners and three Filipinos were arrested while a pickup truck, excavators, and other equipment and supplies believed to have been used in illegal mining activities were seized.

The individuals arrested and the items seized were turned over to the police.

“Illegal mining is not a minor violation. It destroys our forests, contaminates our waterways, and threatens the safety and livelihood of entire communities. Kapag hinayaan natin ito, ang talo ay ang mamamayan,” PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

The country’s top cop also urged the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activities to authorities immediately, particularly in remote areas where illegal operations may be concealed.

“Malaking tulong ang impormasyon mula sa ating mga kababayan. Kapag may napapansin kayong kahina-hinalang aktibidad, i-report agad o itawag sa unified 911. Sama-sama nating protektahan ang ating kalikasan at ang kinabukasan ng susunod na henerasyon,” Nartatez added.