BOTOGA -- Colombian Minister of Defense Guillermo Botero has announced plans to escalate the fight against illegal mining in the Colombian Amazon region. Under the plan, the military will cooperate with National Police operating under the so-called Plan de Choque 'El que la Hace La Paga'.
Even as Botero made the announcement, troops of the Jungle Brigade No. 26 of the National Army dismantled the illegal mining organization called 'Banda del Mercurio' and seized or destroyed its major infrastructure and captured 12 of its members, including the main leader of the organization. The operation against Banda del Mercurio lasted two weeks.
At the same time, the National Police have captured 113 illegal miners since President Ivan Duque was sworn into office. Police have also seized guns, stolen vehicles, and 1,139 kilograms of cocaine during operations.
While Colombia made major strides in improving peace in its country with the peace treaty signed with FARC, threats remain. Drug growers and traffickers remain a problem, along with other illegal activities, such as illegal mining. The National Police have taken the lead in combatting these groups. However, the military will continue to play a role as well, meaning funding will continue to be strong going forward.
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