Teófilo Kukush, a leader of the Wampís community in Peru, has called for a state of emergency due to illegal miners reportedly using children as ‘human shields.’ The mining operations have led to violence, with numerous fatalities among indigenous activists and community leaders. While Peru sees substantial gold production, a majority of miners operate illegally, spurred by high market demand and inadequate regulation.
In Peru, an indigenous community leader has urged the government to declare a state of emergency due to the alarming use of children as “human shields” by illegal miners. Teófilo Kukush, the president of the Wampís community, reported that miners incentivize local residents and place children in vulnerable positions to protect their operations during armed confrontations with authorities.
Kukush highlighted that these miners, operating primarily between the ages of 5 and 10 years old, are strategically positioned in front of dredging machinery when authorities attempt to conduct raids. The government has not yet commented on these serious allegations.
The ongoing conflict between illegal miners and authorities has resulted in violent clashes, with at least thirty fatalities in the past two years, including the murder of indigenous rights activists and community leaders. These conflicts often stem from the activities of miners, loggers, and drug traffickers in the region.
Financial reports indicate a staggering $1.096 billion in customs operations linked to illegal mining between January and October of the previous year. Despite Peru producing 108 million grams of gold in 2024—a 6.9% increase from the prior year—only a fraction of miners are operating legally, with only 20% holding formal permits.
The government recognizes 85,000 registered artisanal miners, primarily from impoverished regions. However, most operate with suspended permits or illegally within formal company territories, further complicating the situation. High market prices for gold and copper have exacerbated illegal mining activities, increasing both operations and conflicts in the region.
The situation in Peru highlights the urgent need for governmental intervention in the illegal mining crisis, particularly regarding the exploitation of children and the broader implications for indigenous communities. The call for a state of emergency aims to address these issues amid ongoing violence and illegal operations. Immediate action is essential to protect vulnerable populations and regulate the mining sector effectively.
Original Source: www.mining.com
