Kanchanaburi Halts Gold Ore Purchases Over Illegal Mining
Kanchanaburi's governor has ordered gold shops to stop buying ore suspected of coming from illegal mining operations in Thong Pha Phum National Park, where authorities have arrested multiple offenders and seized equipment. Buyers and seller
On July 21, Kanchanaburi Governor Waristha Sawansemsai signed an official proclamation urging all gold shops and ore dealers in the province to stop purchasing gold ore suspected of coming from illegal activities. The warning follows reports from Thong Pha Phum National Park of trespassing and illegal mining operations in forest areas of tambon Philok, Thong Pha Phum district, where authorities have already arrested multiple offenders and seized mining equipment.
As gold prices continue to rise, traders have begun purchasing ore from illegal miners seeking quick profits. Authorities have discovered that criminals are selling illegally mined gold to shops throughout Kanchanaburi. The illegal mining damages natural resources and the environment while threatening national economic and social security.
Under the Minerals Act of 2017, buying, selling, possessing, or transporting ore without a license from the Department of Basic Industries and Mining carries penalties of up to one year imprisonment or fines of three to five times the ore's value, or both. Such transactions also constitute a predicate offense under the Money Laundering Prevention Act of 1992, which carries additional penalties.
Thong Pha Phum National Park officials urged all gold shops, used goods dealers, and related businesses to refuse purchases of gold ore or ore-like materials from sellers who cannot provide clear documentation of origin. The park head called on the public to report illegal mining activities, unlicensed gold ore sales, or related information to police, the emergency hotline 191, or local authorities for legal action.
Authorities including national park rangers, special forces, border patrol police, local administration, and Philok Police Station have coordinated efforts to crack down on the illegal mining network.
