# Hanrine mining controversy in Ecuador > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hanrine-mining-controversy-in-ecuador > Updated: 2026-10-12T18:00:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Hanrine Ecuadorian Exploration and Mining, a subsidiary of Gina Rinehart’s mining interests, has faced sustained opposition from local communities in northern Ecuador. In La Merced de Buenos Aires, residents have protested against gold and copper exploration concessions, alleging that the granting process involved irregularities and lacked proper legal consultation. Conflict escalated in August 2021 when security forces, including police and soldiers, used tear gas and physical force to clear protesters and allow company vehicles access to sites. More recent scrutiny has emerged regarding Hanrine’s alleged failure to address illegal mining on its concessions and potential complicity in heavy-handed security responses. Local workers have also alleged mistreatment. Hanrine has denied these allegations, describing community leaders as “anti-prosperity activists.” The company is also considering exploration in the environmentally sensitive Llurimagua region. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-12: Australian political and corporate activities face scrutiny in India and Ecuador NSW Premier Chris Minns' recent trip to India cost taxpayers over $225,000, while Gina Rinehart’s Hanrine faces allegations regarding its mining operations and community relations in Ecuador. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/australian-political-and-corporate-activities-face-scrutiny-in-india-and-ecuador ### 2026-10-09: Gina Rinehart’s mining subsidiary faces local resistance in Ecuador Local villagers in Ecuador are protesting against Hanrine Ecuadorian Exploration and Mining, a subsidiary of Gina Rinehart’s company, alleging illegal concession processes and facing heavy-handed security crack 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gina-rineharts-mining-subsidiary-faces-local-resistance-in-ecuador --- Cite as: Hanrine mining controversy in Ecuador. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hanrine-mining-controversy-in-ecuador