Suspended mining operations

After the landslide occurred on last Thursday in the Bella Rica sector, Ponce Enriquez canton, and that, so far, leaving a toll of five dead (four Peruvian and one Ecuadorian) and a dozen wounded, the Ministry of Mines has ordered to indefinitely suspend the exploration and exploitation of gold in the sector.

The situation at the site of the disaster is still complicated by weather and the steepness of the mountain. Police and Army officials, backed by dogs, are those who command the rescue operation. It is speculated that they are many more victims, because is a fact that the landslide swept away three houses and covered with mud at least 20 other people, which is why the search and rescue labors are still been carried out.

Army officials are helping on the rescue mission.

“This measure is taken for the safety of workers and to carry out the rescue. The suspension will remain until the job and technical security of the areas are guaranteed,” said deputy mining minister, Federico Auquilla.