Peru Gold Miner Poderosa Reports Fatal Criminal Attack

Lima – Poderosa, one of the largest gold mining companies in Peru, reported that it was recently attacked by armed criminals associated with illegal mining at one of its facilities. This incident resulted in the death of a security agent.

The attack occurred in the Amazonian province of Pataz, where another individual sustained injuries from inhaling toxic fumes. In its statement, Poderosa expressed condolences to the family of the deceased security agent, who worked for the security firm Huayna SAC.

The armed assailants launched an offensive using explosives, starting before 5 p.m. on Tuesday and extending well into the night.

Earlier this year, Poderosa noted that illegal miners were responsible for a power outage and attacks on electricity towers. In December, a raid at one of its mines resulted in nine fatalities and 15 injuries. Over the past two years, at least 30 people have lost their lives in armed conflicts at gold mining sites across the country.

Poderosa remarked, "Despite the substantial police presence in Pataz, attacks on our operations continue unabated." The company indicated that this cycle of violence is linked to the rapid rise in illegal mining, which is often intertwined with organized crime, operating with total impunity.

Poderosa has urged Congress not to extend the mandate of the REINFO program, a formalization initiative for small-scale miners, claiming it has contributed to the proliferation of illegal mining. Additionally, the company called on the government to enhance efforts against illegal mining activities and to improve oversight of processing plants that handle materials from such operations.

Peru stands as a significant global producer of gold.