THE Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has raised concerns that 11 Chinese nationals recently arrested for illegal mining operations in Paracale, Camarines Norte, may be searching for uranium, among other minerals.
“On paper, they are mining for ore. But based on technical assessment by our engineers, it’s highly probable they’re also trying to source out uranium deposits,” PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio revealed in a radio interview on Thursday. He added that Paracale has been identified as a potential source of uranium.
The municipal government, along with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and the Environmental Management Bureau, has launched a full investigation into the matter.
Citing preliminary findings, Paracale Mayor Romeo Moreno told the Inquirer on Wednesday that “uranium, a highly regulated mineral, is allegedly being excavated at the site.”
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of the illegal mining operation and the potential presence of uranium deposits.
“The facility, which is located on private property in a mountainous area of Tawig, will remain under close scrutiny until the investigation is concluded,” Moreno added.
Uranium is a heavy metal which has been used as a source of concentrated energy for more than 60 years, mainly for nuclear reactors.
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