Butuan city: Four individuals involved in illegal mining activities were arrested by operatives from the Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) and personnel from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) on Thursday morning.

According to Philippines News Agency, BCPO Director Col. Rommel Villamor stated that the operation took place in Purok 2, Barangay Bilay. The individuals apprehended in the operation were identified only by their aliases - Rom and John from Barangay Bilay, and El and Jer from Barangay Aupagan, both within the city limits.

The suspects face charges for violating Republic Act 7942 or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995, Butuan City Ordinance No. 7244-2025, and Administrative Order No. 2010-21 of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The tools used in their illegal activities have been confiscated and are now under the custody of the Butuan City Mobile Force Company, which led the operation.

Col. Villamor emphasized the BCPO's commitment to combating illegal mining activities that harm the environment. He assured that efforts will continue to apprehend those engaged in such unlawful practices. Villamor also encouraged city residents to assist the local police by reporting any crimes or emergencies through the city's 911 emergency hotline.