Key facts
- Venezuela has deployed troops to target illegal mining groups in Bolivar state.
- The operation is focused on the Orinoco Mining Arc, a mineral-rich region near borders with Guyana and Brazil.
- Residents reported hearing explosions, gunfire, and seeing drones, leading to business closures.
- Human rights groups expressed concern about potential extrajudicial executions and arbitrary detentions.
- The move is part of an effort to attract foreign investment to Venezuela's mining sector.
- Venezuela passed a new mining law in April to encourage foreign investment.
Venezuela has deployed troops to target illegal mining groups controlling key gold deposits in Bolivar state, according to local residents and human rights activists. The operation is focused on the Orinoco Mining Arc, a mineral-rich area near the country's borders with Guyana and Brazil.
Residents reported hearing explosions and gunfire, leading to many people staying off the streets and forcing businesses to close. Drones were also observed flying low overhead for hours. These accounts come amid fears from rights groups like Provea, which warned of the risk of extrajudicial executions and arbitrary detentions against the civilian population.
The deployment occurs as Venezuela's government seeks to attract foreign investment to its long-stalled mining sector. The country passed a new mining law in April aimed at encouraging international participation, and the government has reportedly pledged security guarantees for incoming companies. This follows a history of nationalization, including former President Hugo Chavez halting Canadian miner Crystallex's Las Cristinas gold project in 2008.
Experts suggest scope for a recovery in gold exports, but emphasize the need for significant investment and renewed exploration.