Kratie Authorities Warn Residents to Halt Illegal Gold Mining

Authorities in Kratie Province, located in northeastern Cambodia, are intensifying their crackdown on illegal gold mining activities. Officials from the Chit Borei District and the provincial Department of Mines and Energy have issued a directive to numerous residents continuing illegal gold mining in the Oungyong area, ordering them to immediately halt their operations before facing legal action. This measure comes in response to the persistent illegal mining and associated illegal land encroachment and trading. The directive, which included an awareness campaign for residents, was led by Mr. Diy Pisei, Deputy Director of the Provincial Department of Mines and Energy, on September 3, 2026. Authorities urged the residents to comply with relevant laws. According to the directive, if residents do not voluntarily dismantle and cease these activities, any individuals who obstruct or interfere with the committee's operations after the 30-day grace period will be subject to penalties under current law. This warning signals a firm stance against illegal conduct and aims to uphold law and order. Illegal mining of natural resources has been a long-standing issue in Cambodia, particularly with small-scale mining continuing in rural areas. The government aims to combat these illegal activities and promote sustainable mineral resource management, although ensuring effectiveness at the local level remains a challenge.