The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested four people and seized sacks of ore minerals and equipment valued at more than P4.5 million during an anti-illegal mining operation in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.

CIDG said the four suspects were allegedly caught transporting suspected ore minerals on two trucks in Barangay Camagong without the required transport permit.

During the operation, authorities confiscated at least 51 sacks of copper mineral ores, raw copper ore minerals not placed in sacks, and two heavy trailer trucks. The total amount of evidence seized was estimated at more than P4.5 million.

Authorities said all mineral resources in public and private lands within the territory and exclusive economic zone of the Philippines are owned by the state.

“The State promotes their rational exploration, development, utilization and conservation through the combined efforts of government and the private sector in order to enhance national growth in a way that effectively safeguards the environment and protect the rights of affected communities,” CIDG Director, Major General Robert Morico II, said.

The suspects are facing charges for theft of minerals and other violations under the Philippine Mining Act (RA 7942).

CIDG urged the public to report illegal activities that affect the environment and natural resources in their localities, such as illegal mining, illegal quarrying, illegal logging, among others.