Crackdown on Illegal Gold Mining in Cambodia Shuts Down 100 Sites

Authorities in Cambodia have launched a major operation to shut down illegal gold mining, targeting around 100 sites between November 3 and 7. The crackdown aimed to stop unauthorised mining activities that often involve harmful chemicals and dangerous explosives, posing serious environmental and health risks.

 Over 50 officials from various Cambodian government agencies, including anti-corruption units and the Ministry of Mines and Energy, led the operation. Heavy machinery was used to dismantle mining pits and facilities in a remote area known for unauthorised gold extraction.

 "The operation is almost complete, with 98 per cent of the illegal sites cleared," said a local official. The focus has been on cleaning up the environment rather than making arrests, as many of the miners, a mix of locals and migrants, fled before authorities arrived.

 A warning was issued to residents before the operation, urging those involved in illegal mining to stop their activities and remove any equipment. The Cambodian government has emphasised that no leniency will be shown to those involved in illegal mining practices that harm the environment.