Security Forces Target Illegal Gold Mining Operations in Mukalla

Security Forces Conduct Raids on Illegal Gold Mining Labs

Mukalla, Hadhramaut – On Monday, security forces in Mukalla, Hadhramaut, announced the execution of targeted raids against four illegal gold extraction and processing labs. This operation resulted in the arrest of several individuals engaged in these unlawful activities.

Details of the Security Operation

The security campaign was spearheaded by Colonel Issa Saeed Al-Amoudi, head of the Criminal Investigation Department. It involved collaboration with patrol police, road security units, forensic teams, and the Geological Survey Authority. Authorities executed the raids with precision following extensive surveillance and intelligence gathering.

The operation focused on the targeted sites, where security units:

• Secured the perimeter and established a tight security cordon.
• Deployed forensic teams to collect and document evidence.
• Engaged geological experts to analyze the seized materials and determine the nature of the raw materials and extraction methods.

Seized Equipment and Organized Networks

The raids resulted in the confiscation of advanced equipment used for illegal gold extraction and processing. Authorities also seized significant quantities of raw materials and detained several suspects, preparing to initiate legal proceedings against them.

Investigations revealed that these operations are part of a broader initiative aimed at dismantling organized networks that exploit mineral resources. Previous investigations uncovered the existence of groups intent on depleting the province’s wealth outside legal frameworks, constituting a direct violation of state resources and community rights.

Community Cooperation and Future Operations

Colonel Al-Amoudi praised the considerable cooperation from local citizens, which played a crucial role in the success of the operations. He emphasized that community partnership serves as the first line of defense against those who threaten the nation’s resources. Al-Amoudi assured that the Criminal Investigation Department remains committed to its national duty and will not allow any individuals or entities to exploit Hadhramaut’s wealth.

He concluded by reaffirming that field operations will continue to apprehend any remaining illegal labs and pursue all involved parties. Notably, security forces had announced the seizure of a fifth similar lab in Mukalla the previous week, bringing the total number of confiscated labs to five within a week.

For more details, visit Yemen TV.