Acting on citizen complaints, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) conducted two inspection visits to properties in the state of Sonora, where it detected gold extraction activities lacking the environmental impact authorization required by current legislation. As a result of both actions, the agency ordered the total temporary closure of the inspected sites.
The first action took place at the facilities of the company RM Esperanza de México, where inspectors confirmed that gold extraction activities were being carried out without the environmental impact authorization issued by the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat). This authorization is essential for identifying, preventing, and mitigating the potential effects a mining project may have on ecosystems, soil, water, and biodiversity. As a safety measure, Profepa ordered the total temporary closure of operations to prevent environmental damage and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
The second action occurred at Rancho Las Golondrinas, located in the municipality of Cucurpe, Sonora, where Profepa personnel responded to a citizen complaint regarding potential environmental impacts. During the inspection, it was found that gold extraction activities were also taking place at the site without the responsible parties being able to prove they held the environmental impact authorization required for such works and activities. Given these irregularities, the agency ordered the total temporary closure of the site as a safety measure to halt activities that could impact the natural environment while the corresponding legal status is determined.
Profepa will follow up on the relevant administrative proceedings to determine any applicable liabilities. Furthermore, it reaffirms its commitment to promptly addressing citizen complaints and monitoring compliance with environmental legislation to protect the country’s natural resources.
Source: gob
