The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Friday said a joint anti-illegal mining operation has exposed a large-scale illegal mining activity believed to be run by an incumbent barangay official.
The raid took place on August 2 in Barangay Nangcaon, Opol, Misamis Oriental, leading to the arrest of an operator and the seizure of several heavy equipment. Authorities voiced concerns about the implications for public accountability and environmental protection.
The operation involved multiple agencies including the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region X, the Environmental Management Bureau Region 10, the National Bureau of Investigation, and the Philippine Army’s 2nd Special Forces Company.
Seized on-site were three hydraulic excavators, 10 water pumps, sluice boxes and mats, hoses, a wooden pan, and a sack of receipts and transaction records. Drone and ground surveillance confirmed a 4.88-hectare disturbed area, with excavation depths of up to three meters.
The arrested individual faces charges for mineral theft under Republic Act No. 7942 and violation of the Water Code. Authorities are pursuing further investigation to ensure that all those involved, especially public officials, are held accountable.
