Repeated Attacks on Vital Energy Infrastructure
The destructive force of illegal miners has struck again, leaving Poderosa Gold Mine in dire straits. This recent blow is just one in a series of aggressive attacks that have targeted the mine’s energy infrastructure 11 times in the past year. The unrelenting assault has been described by the mining company as ‘terrorist tactics’ that pose a significant threat to the security of the nation.
This latest incident joins a long line of violent clashes. In December 2023, a gang of armed individuals stormed the Poderosa facilities, launching a vicious assault on the company’s security personnel. Tragically, nine individuals lost their lives, and 15 more suffered severe injuries in the wake of the brutal attack.
The grim tally of casualties from this senseless violence was heart-wrenching. Among the victims, seven were identified as security guards, while three were operators, each in the prime of their lives with ages ranging from 20 to 30 years old.
Call to Action Amid Growing Threats
Peru’s national police were forced to intervene to regain control of the mine, following the despicable acts that unfolded. The perpetrators of this heinous assault wielded high-potency explosives, resulting in untold harm and devastation. In what’s becoming a common occurrence, the mining company issued a brief over the weekend, emphasizing the seriousness of illegal mining, likening it to drug trafficking in terms of generating illicit income in the country. It’s evident that illegal mining is intricately linked to a network of criminal activities, including but not limited to human trafficking, environmental pollution, extortion, and hired assassinations.
The mining company’s outcry against these unconscionable acts culminated in a plea directed at the Peruvian government. The company implored swift and resolute action, urging the government to intensify efforts to combat and eradicate the menace of illegal mining before it perpetuates further threats.
Poderosa’s Plight and Productivity
Amidst this ever-escalating turmoil, Poderosa Gold Mine stands as an underground operation, positioned at elevations ranging from 1,250 to 3,000 meters above sea level. Gold and silver constitute the primary products of the mine, with an impressive production output of 300,662 ounces of gold and 191,898 ounces of silver in 2022.
