Authorities in Kratie province have identified several individuals suspected of illegal gold mining in protected areas and pledged to crack down on remaining cases.
The Ministry of Environment reported that a provincial task force launched a far-reaching investigation into the mining operations in early July.
The task force, comprised of park rangers, local authorities and officials from the environment and mining departments, identified illegal mining at several locations, including Bek Chan, Som Depot and Thmor Puoy near Phnom Chi, in Kampong Cham commune, Sambor district, Kratie province.
They conducted patrols and inspected several locations. In addition to identifying several suspects, they seized mining equipment, including multiple pumps.
Legal cases are reportedly being prepared against the individuals who have been identified.
Kratie provincial governor Va Thorn urged the task force to issue formal notices ordering an immediate halt to all illegal mining activities.
The provincial administration has called for an end to the unlawful movement of explosives and chemicals, illegal land clearing, and the illegal transfer, purchase and sale of forest land within areas covered by mineral resource exploitation and exploration licences already granted by the Royal Government.