DAVAO DEL NORTE — Authorities arrested three Chinese nationals and a Filipino backhoe operator in a joint operation against illegal mining in Purok 2, Barangay Mambing, New Corella, Davao del Norte, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
The suspects were allegedly involved in unauthorized mining activities. Upon investigation, the Chinese nationals were unable to present the necessary permits, leading to their immediate detention.
During the operation, law enforcement seized various illegal mining equipment, including three backhoe units, four water pumps, and two fabricated screeners.
The suspects are now in the custody of the New Corella Municipal Police Station for processing. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 11 and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are preparing charges.
The operation was a collaborative effort by the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO 11), New Corella Municipal Police Station, Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region 11, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (Penro-Davao del Norte), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Centro), and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). WGM
