Authorities arrested four men and seized sacks of suspected mineral ores and mining equipment worth around P9.5 million in an anti-illegal mining operation in Barangay Mabini, Surigao City.

According to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the four suspects were caught allegedly engaging in mining activities in Sitio Bedrock without permits from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB).

CIDG added that the suspects also failed to present documents, permit, and authority to process gold mineral ores.

Confiscated during the operation were eight sacks of suspected gold ore, with their estimated value still undetermined as of this writing, and mining equipment, including backhoes, sluice matting, metal hose, water pump, among others worth around P9.5 million.

Authorities reiterated that all mineral resources in public and private lands within the territory and exclusive economic zone are owned by the state pursuant to the Philippine Mining Act (RA 7942).

CIDG said illegal mining operations disregard environmental laws and required rehabilitation measures, which will cause severe, long-term destruction to terrestrial, aquatic, and human ecosystems, and will trigger a chain reaction of ecological disasters.

“The operations underscores the CIDG’s resolve in fighting all forms of destruction of environment and natural resources, through OPLAN KALIKASAN,” CIDG said.

The public is urged to take part in protecting local ecosystems by reporting environmental law violations within their communities, including illegal mining, quarrying, logging, and destructive fishing practices that cause extensive lasting damage to natural resources.