Antioquia military operation disrupts illegal gold mining

Military forces in San Rafael, Antioquia, dismantled an illegal gold mining operation located in the Playas area near the Guatapé River. During the intervention, soldiers neutralized an artisanal dredge, two classifiers, a motor, 30 meters of hose, a suction nozzle, and 20 liters of diesel.

Authorities estimate the seized machinery represents an economic loss of over $25 million. Furthermore, the operation is expected to significantly impact illicit revenues, as the mining unit had the capacity to produce approximately 1,800 grams of gold per month, valued at nearly $800 million. This action follows several recent operations in the San Rafael municipality aimed at preventing environmental damage to ecosystems and water sources.