Illegal mining activities and immigration violations uncovered in coordinated operation across Davao de Oro and Davao del Norte
Authorities arrested twenty Chinese nationals during a joint operation conducted by Bureau of Immigration 11 and 10th Infantry Division.
The coordinated enforcement operation took place on April 22, 2026, in Pantukan, Davao de Oro, and Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
Officials reported that the suspects were holding tourist visas but had already overstayed their legal permitted stay in the Philippines.
During the operation, authorities discovered suspected illegal mining activities being conducted in multiple areas under close surveillance and intelligence monitoring.
Law enforcement teams seized mineral resources, heavy equipment, explosives, and Chinese military style uniforms from the operation sites.
Authorities said the seized materials raised serious concerns regarding environmental damage and possible security implications in affected communities.
The arrested individuals are now under custody while investigators prepare formal charges for immigration and mining law violations filed.
Authorities are building cases under the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 and the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 regulations.
Officials confirmed that deeper investigation continues to identify possible networks, supporting individuals, and other related illegal operations in region.
Authorities emphasized continued joint operations to strengthen border security, protect natural resources, and ensure national safety against illegal activities.Authorities arrested twenty Chinese nationals during a joint operation conducted by Bureau of Immigration 11 and 10th Infantry Division.
The coordinated enforcement operation took place on April 22, 2026, in Pantukan, Davao de Oro, and Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
Officials reported that the suspects were holding tourist visas but had already overstayed their legal permitted stay in the Philippines.
During the operation, authorities discovered suspected illegal mining activities being conducted in multiple areas under close surveillance and intelligence monitoring.
Law enforcement teams seized mineral resources, heavy equipment, explosives, and Chinese military style uniforms from the operation sites.
Authorities said the seized materials raised serious concerns regarding environmental damage and possible security implications in affected communities.
The arrested individuals are now under custody while investigators prepare formal charges for immigration and mining law violations filed.
Authorities are building cases under the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 and the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 regulations.
Officials confirmed that deeper investigation continues to identify possible networks, supporting individuals, and other related illegal operations in region.
Authorities emphasized continued joint operations to strengthen border security, protect natural resources, and ensure national safety against illegal activities.
