Peru cracks down on illegal gold mining in Amazon reserve with military show of force

The skies above a rich corner of the Peruvian Amazon filled with smoke and debris this week as all branches of the country's military attacked illegal gold mining camps deep in the jungle.

In a speech at the inauguration, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Chinedu Nkah, said the task force would monitor mining and quarry activities across the three senatorial districts and ensure that the operators complied with relevant laws and regulations.

Ecuador's Army destroyed nine excavators used for illegal gold mining in Napo and Morona Santiago, a strike worth more than US$1 million against Amazon crime networks.

Illegal mining declined in parts of Madre de Dios after Peru launched a major military and police crackdown known as Operation Mercury in 2019. But miners have since moved back toward protected areas, prompting authorities to intensify operations.

Peruvian authorities have intensified efforts against illegal gold mining in the Amazon's Madre de Dios region

Thailand has increased enforcement against illegal business networks and suspected nominee shareholding by conducting joint inspections of hotels and establishments in Bangkok's Huai Khwang District, reported the Government Public Relations Department.