Environmental agency shuts down two Sonora mining sites for illegal gold extraction

Mexico's Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) has temporarily shut down two gold mining operations in the state of Sonora. Both sites were found to be extracting gold without the necessary environmental impact permits, a mandatory requirement for such projects.

The closures were initiated after citizen complaints prompted federal inspections. In the first case, inspectors found that the company RM Esperanza de México was conducting gold extraction activities without the proper authorization from the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat). As a precautionary measure to prevent potential environmental damage, Profepa ordered the complete temporary suspension of operations.

The second closure occurred at the Rancho Las Golondrinas in the municipality of Cucurpe. An inspection, also stemming from a complaint, confirmed that gold extraction was taking place without the environmental permit mandated by law. Profepa emphasized that these permits are crucial for assessing a project's potential effects on soil, water, flora, fauna, and ecosystems, and for establishing mitigation measures.

Profepa has initiated administrative proceedings for both cases to determine the responsibilities of those involved and to impose applicable sanctions. The agency stated it will continue to respond to citizen complaints and strengthen surveillance to combat activities that violate environmental regulations and pose risks to natural resources.