By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on Monday reported the arrest of two Korean nationals and nine Filipinos involved in illegal mining in Butuan City.
In a statement, CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre said the CIDG-Caraga operatives arrested Joung Whan Oh and Young Gwan Mun, both Korean nationals, and Filipino suspects identified as alias John, Jenalyn, Herbert, Jenie, Noel, Macky, Beth, Marvin, and Elmer in Barangay San Vicente on March 21.
In coordination with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 13, Torres said the suspects were caught in the act while transporting 500 sacks of suspected copper ore minerals worth PHP700,000, using a Hyundai trailer truck and a Kia Bongo vehicle.
He said the suspects failed to show necessary mining permits and other related documents from the MGB and DENR.
The arrested suspects will be charged before the National Prosecution Service with violations of Sections 101 (illegal exploration), 103 (theft of minerals), and 110 (transporting minerals without a permit) in relation to Section 53 of Republic Act No. 7942 (Philippine Mining Act of 1995).
Torre said all mineral resources in public and private lands within the territory and exclusive economic zone of the Republic of the Philippines are owned by the State.
He added the State promotes its rational exploration, development, utilization, and conservation through the combined efforts of government and the private sector to enhance national growth in a way that effectively safeguards the environment and protect the rights of affected communities.
“Rest assured the CIDG is relentless in catching all violators and criminals, local or foreign nationals alike, and steadfast in implementing all laws of the land,” he said.
Torre urged the public to report all violations and illegal activities. (PNA)
