Latin America intensifies crackdowns on illegal mining and aggregate extraction

The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, together with the National Environmental Protection Service (SENPA), expanded patrols and inspections in the El Pocito sector of Montecristi province to stop unlawful extraction of sand and gravel from riverbeds. Officials warned that anyone caught violating Law No. 64‑00 on the environment will face legal action, emphasizing a zero‑tolerance policy.

In Peru, joint operations by the National Police and the Navy targeted illegal gold mining in the Amazonian regions of Madre de Dios and Loreto. Police seized weapons, ammunition and destroyed mining infrastructure, while navy forces dismantled barges and camps along the Nanay River. Authorities reported that more than three million soles in assets were confiscated or destroyed and 21 suspects were detained during the raids.

Both countries are intensifying enforcement to curb environmental crime, protect natural resources and dismantle organized groups that profit from illicit mining activities.