Abangares road collapse reveals illegal mining tunnel network

A road collapse in the Pozo Azul area of Abangares has revealed a network of tunnels allegedly used for illegal mining. The hole, which reached a depth of at least 10 meters, led residents to discover wooden-supported passages and discarded mining equipment.

The Directorate of Geology and Mines (DGM) is investigating the incident following reports that the tunnels compromise the stability of the road used by pedestrians and vehicles. This discovery follows other complaints regarding illegal extraction in Las Juntas de Abangares.

The event highlights growing concerns regarding illegal mining in Costa Rica. In response to such activities, the Legislative Assembly has approved a first-reading reform to the Organized Crime Law, which would classify illegal mining as organized crime and increase potential prison sentences to up to eight years.