The Philippine National Police, in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, has intensified the government’s campaign against illegal mining following a joint operation that led to the arrest of 17 individuals in Barangay Luklukan Sur, Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte.
The intelligence-driven operation was led by the NBI, with support from the Jose Panganiban Municipal Police Station.
Authorities said the operation disrupted an alleged illegal mining site where the suspects were reportedly operating without the permits required under existing mining laws.
Recovered during the operation were heavy equipment, ore-processing facilities, alleged gold-bearing materials, mercury, and improvised explosive materials, including blasting components, believed to have been used in the unlawful operation.
The arrested individuals are currently under police custody pending the filing of appropriate charges for alleged violations of environmental and other applicable laws.
The recovered explosives and related evidence were turned over to the NBI, while the remaining seized equipment was placed under the custody of local authorities pending proper legal disposition.
The PNP said the operation reflects strengthened inter-agency collaboration under its Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations.
It said the campaign supports government efforts to protect the country’s natural resources, uphold environmental laws, and ensure public safety in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating teams for the successful operation and stressed the need for sustained cooperation among law enforcement agencies.