A group of informal miners attacked Southern Copper’s Los Chancas mining project in Peru, injuring 20 workers and security guards. The incident is under investigation as it reflects ongoing tensions between informal and corporate mining operations in the region. Peru’s mining sector is increasingly affected by informal operators due to high metal prices and economic conditions.
A recent attack by informal miners on the facilities of Southern Copper Corp. at an exploration project in southern Peru resulted in 20 individuals being injured, including both workers and security personnel. Local authorities are currently investigating the incident. The attack, which left the Los Chancas mining camp in flames, echoes a similar destructive event from 2022, showcasing ongoing tensions in the region regarding mining operations.
Peru, a significant supplier of gold and copper, has seen an increase in informal mining activities fueled by high market prices and new mining techniques. Additionally, a temporary registry aimed at formalizing these operations has inadvertently encouraged further informal activity, which frequently overlaps with lands owned by large mining companies. Despite the potential conflicts, informal mining is politically supported due to its provision of jobs in impoverished communities.
The attack on Southern Copper highlights key issues within Peru’s mining sector, particularly the ongoing conflict between informal miners and large corporate entities. As social media displays troubling images from the site, the company’s management has indicated it will release a formal statement concerning the incident shortly. The volatile nature of Peru’s mining landscape continues to raise concerns about safety and security for workers in these essential industries.
The attack at the Los Chancas mining camp illustrates the severe challenges faced in Peru’s mining sector, particularly the clashes between informal miners and established companies. With 20 injuries reported, authorities are investigating the situation, while Southern Copper prepares further communication. Understanding the complexities of informal mining, including its significant role in employment and economic conditions, is essential for addressing these ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: www.mining.com
