KIAMBA, Sarangani Province — Four men were arrested after authorities conducted an anti-illegal mining operation in Barangay Maligang, Kiamba, Sarangani Province, on September 7, 2026.
The operation was carried out by joint elements of the Kiamba Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with personnel from the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO)-Kiamba, the 2nd Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd SPMFC), the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), and the Municipal Law Enforcement Team (MLET)-Kiamba.
Authorities said the operating team proceeded to Purok 3, Barangay Maligang, where they reportedly encountered and apprehended four male individuals allegedly engaged in illegal mining activities.
Aside from the arrests, the operation resulted in the seizure of various equipment and tools allegedly being used for mining activities in the area.
Among the items confiscated were two diesel engines, including a Yanmar 12HP HS-4 unit and a Yamaha Advance 190 unit; one chainsaw; two Lotus electric jackhammers, consisting of one large-size and one medium-size unit; one long shafting with bearing; one large steel wheel; one shovel; one wood saw; one long set of assorted electrical wires; four steel hammers; two carpentry hammers; one large black tray; and one small tray reportedly used for mining.
The seized equipment was initially transported to the Kiamba Municipal Police Station for documentation and inventory.
Following documentation, the equipment was turned over to CENRO-Kiamba for custody, proper disposition, and the filing of appropriate charges in connection with the alleged illegal mining activities.
The four arrested individuals remain under the custody of the Kiamba MPS as authorities continue processing the case. The matter was also referred to CENRO-Kiamba for appropriate environmental and legal action.
The operation underscores the continuing coordination between law enforcement and environmental authorities in addressing unauthorized mining activities, particularly those involving the use of heavy equipment and other tools in areas where mining operations may be subject to environmental and regulatory restrictions.
Authorities have yet to disclose the identities of the four arrested individuals and the specific charges to be filed against them.
The suspects are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The Kiamba police and its partner agencies reiterated their commitment to enforcing laws and protecting the environment under their campaign message: “Serve Better, Protect Stronger.”