Authorities have arrested a total of 19 foreign nationals, including 17 Chinese men and two Lao men, in connection with illegal gold mining activities near Wanlang village, Kanglek, Tachilek Township, eastern Shan State.
According to reports, the arrests were made during a coordinated security operation based on information provided by residents about illegal gold mining in the area. Security forces conducted a clearance operation and discovered the suspects at around 1 pm in two separate locations near the village.
At a site about 450 metres south of Wanlang village, 11 Chinese nationals and one Lao national were found on a dredging raft preparing for gold panning. At another site about 600 metres southwest of the village, six Chinese nationals and one Lao national were also found on a second dredging raft.
Authorities confiscated an array of illegal gold-mining equipment, highlighted by a massive, partially constructed dredging platform. The structure measured 120 feet by 37 feet and contained six individual rooms. Alongside the platform, officials seized a diesel engine system, a generator, dynamos, air tanks, gas cylinders, and rubber sheets specifically used for extracting gold.
Officials said all seized equipment will be handed over to relevant departments in accordance with procedures or destroyed, while the foreign nationals will be prosecuted under the law for illegal entry and related offences.
MNA/KZL
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