Hsu/Pearl (NSS)- Sept 29

According to locals contacted by The Statesman Journal, illegal gold mining sites east of Mone Town in Bago Region’s Kyaukkyi Township remain active, despite orders from President U Min Aung Hlaing to clear them.

Around 30 backhoe excavators reportedly remain in operation at these mining sites.

“During his trip to the southern region, the President instructed the authorities to clear the illegal gold-mining sites. The mining areas east of Mone have now been completely stripped off. All of these sites are located in the southeastern part of the Mone area of Kyaukkyi Township, where gold is being illegally extracted in cooperation with the KNU. Around 30 backhoes are operating at the sites, where clear-cut mining methods are being used. The sites are clearly visible even from the air,” a local told The Statesman Journal.

Those backhoe excavators are reportedly entering the area from Htantabin Township.

“All of the backhoes entered through Htantabin Township. Fuel is being transported into the Mone area via the Zarapgyi–Mone route in Htantabin Township, the Bwa Aye Su river crossing near Kuto Jetty in Phyu Township, and Kuto Jetty, which connects Phyu and the Mone area,” he said.

Fuel for the illegal sites is reportedly entering the area easily, according to the resident.

“Hundreds of fuel drums are being transported to the mountains, while fuel for agricultural machinery and vehicles used by villagers is in very short supply. People can travel to the gold-mining areas without difficulty, but locals are afraid of leaving their villages. On their trips for mushrooms, bamboo shoots or vegetables, they risk stepping on landmines, or being beaten by KNU-appointed administrative groups,” the resident said.

Reports also indicate that runoff from the illegal mining operations has rendered water from Mone Creek unfit for drinking or bathing. 

“Because of water discharged from the gold-mining sites, Mone Creek, which was once known for its exceptionally clear water, can no longer be used even for bathing. Villages along the creek are struggling to obtain clean water because it has become muddy,” the resident said. –