Hadramout Authority Warns Against Illegal Mining, Threatens Strict Action

The Geological Survey and Mineral Resources Authority in Hadramout has issued a stern warning against the escalating illegal mining and extraction of mineral resources across several areas of the governorate, emphasizing that such practices pose a direct threat to the national economy and environment, and constitute a clear violation of existing laws.

The authority stated in a released statement that it is observing with grave concern the rise in haphazard prospecting for metallic minerals, particularly gold, silver, and copper, especially in the regions of Dhuluma, Wadi Madan, and Wadi Al-Masini. It stressed that these resources are sovereign assets belonging to the state and future generations, and their exploitation is prohibited outside legal and official frameworks.

The authority urged citizens in areas near mineral deposit sites to be aware of the dangers of these practices, asserting that random excavation is not a legitimate investment, but rather constitutes a "systematic plunder" that harms the environment and deprives the governorate of development opportunities based on organized investments.

It affirmed that the Yemeni constitution and the Minerals and Quarries Law clearly stipulate state ownership of all mineral wealth, noting the prohibition of any extraction operations without official licenses from competent authorities. It reiterated that violators will face strict legal measures, including imprisonment, fines, and confiscation of equipment.

In this context, the authority issued an urgent appeal to the security and military apparatuses in Hadramout to fulfill their role in halting illegal mining activities, apprehending violators, securing mining sites, and preventing the entry of any equipment or individuals without official permits.

The authority underscored that protecting mineral resources is a shared responsibility that requires the concerted efforts of both the community and official bodies to ensure their legal exploitation, contributing to the enhancement of development and serving the public interest.