Two Chinese nationals were arrested in Zamboanga del Norte for allegedly engaging in an unauthorized gold processing operation.

The operation was carried out by personnel of the Bureau of Immigration (BI), police officers, and military troops on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, based on a BI mission order.

According to the 1st Infantry Division (1ID), the suspects, 59 and 41 years old and residents of Shaanxi Province and Hubei Province in China, were arrested for allegedly overstaying and engaging in business activities without the required visa or permit.

The military said the suspects were allegedly found operating a gold ball milling facility used for processing mineral ore, an activity that may be considered unauthorized mineral processing when carried out without the required permits and compliance with regulations.

Authorities stressed that unregulated mineral processing operations can pose risks to the environment and economy.

“Local residents had previously raised concerns regarding the condition of the facility and disputes involving rental obligations with the property owner,” 1ID said.

The suspects were turned over to the BI for legal proceedings.