Alleged Illegal Mining in Coclé del Norte in the Donoso District with Ten People Arrested.
Authorities also detected illegal logging at the site.
Ten people, including six Colombians and four Panamanians, were arrested for their alleged involvement in illegal mining, in an operation carried out in Coclé del Norte, district of Donoso (Colón). The Attorney General’s Office reported that the Specialized Superior Prosecutor’s Office is investigating these individuals for the alleged commission of crimes against natural resources and illicit association to commit crimes. Furthermore, it was explained that this alleged illegal activity affected the Calzones River and that the area is a protected area under the category of managed resources, where this type of activity is not allowed. In the operation, authorities located dredges, water pumps, digital scales, electric generators, solar panels, satellite internet equipment, cell phones, and other electronic devices.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office reported that the seized items indicate that the group operated in an organized manner. The operation was reportedly launched following reports from the National Aeronaval Service and citizen complaints. Personnel from the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Commerce and Industries participated in the operation, dubbed Piedra Amarilla (Yellow Stone). According to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation revealed the felling of trees, degradation of natural resources, pollution from waste, and damage associated with activities for the extraction of mineral resources. The apprehended individuals will be brought before a judge of guarantees, before whom the Prosecutor’s Office will request the legalization of the arrests, formulate the charges and request precautionary measures.
