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[CRIME] · Honduras · 3 sources

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Honduras launches operation against illegal gold mining in Río Plátano Biosphere

The Honduran Public Ministry has launched 'Operación Río Sagrado 2' to combat large-scale illegal gold mining within the Río Plátano Biosphere and the Río del Hombre Reserve. The operation is concentrated in the Ulukuas sector of the Brus Laguna municipality.

Investigations conducted by the Technical Criminal Investigation Agency (ATIC) confirmed the presence of open-pit mining operations utilizing heavy machinery. These activities have caused extensive deforestation and significant alterations to riverbeds, posing a major threat to the ecological integrity of the region, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Authorities intend to destroy all machinery and equipment found in the area, as well as dismantle illegal roads and provisional structures. The legal proceedings involve charges of illegal exploitation of natural resources, usurpation, and the looting of archaeological assets, affecting both the Diunat Territorial Council and the region's cultural heritage.

Entities

Agencia Técnica de Investigación Criminal · Consejo Territorial Diunat · Ministério Público · Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve · UNESCO

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