San Ignacio residents report road destruction due to suspected illegal mining

Residents of Puerto San Juan de Dios in the San José de Lourdes district, San Ignacio, are reporting significant infrastructure damage allegedly caused by illegal mining activities. A section of the road connecting the area to Puerto Chinchipe has disappeared due to the river advancing into the territory.

During an inspection by the Environmental Prosecutor's Office, authorities and locals confirmed that more than two hectares of land and agricultural plots have been affected. Residents claim that mining operations, including the movement of materials and the construction of walls, are diverting the river's course toward their properties.

Local inhabitants report that machinery operates continuously, day and night, raising fears regarding potential damage to homes and crops. The destruction of the road has left the area nearly impassable, forcing families to use narrow, dangerous paths along the riverbank and creating safety risks in the event of an emergency.