Three killed in Peruvian attack on informal mine operation

Seven people are missing and at least three have been killed following an attack on a mine in northern Peru on New Year’s Eve, according to local officials. Pataz Mayor Aldo Marino stated that the incident occurred approximately one hour before midnight on December 31st.

According to Marino, three individuals were found deceased at the mine entrance, while seven others remain unaccounted for. The mayor noted that the final death toll could be as high as 15, pending further recovery of bodies.

Details surrounding the incident are still emerging. However, informal mining operations have been a frequent source of conflict in South America, with criminal groups competing for control over gold mines.

The attack took place near Vijus, La Libertad department, in northwestern Peru. A similar incident occurred last May, resulting in the deaths of 13 miners in the same region. This led to local authorities imposing a 30-day suspension of mining activities and implementing a night-time curfew.

The region is known for its gold mines, including Lagunas Norte, one of the world’s largest. Informal mines have also emerged, with rural residents and criminal gangs attempting to profit from the area’s rich mineral deposits.

Police have arrested two individuals in connection with the incident, and an investigation is ongoing. Authorities have recovered 11 shell casings at the scene, according to local prosecutors. A mining company reported that its security personnel discovered three deceased individuals after approaching the crime scene.

The government had previously suspended permits for approximately 50,000 small-scale miners as part of a formalization process, allowing around 30,000 to continue operations. Peru exported $15.5 billion worth of gold in 2024, with an estimated 40% coming from illicit enterprises.

Source: Al Jazeera