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A national special task force has seized heavy machinery and other equipment during inspections targeting suspected illegal gold mining at Ban Sor and Ban Vang Ma in Sangthong District, Vientiane, as authorities step up enforcement of laws governing mineral extraction.
(KPL) The inspections were conducted in two phases, from September 23–26 and October 9–11, 2026, under Agreement No. 78/PM dated July 14, 2026, and in line with Prime Minister’s Orders No. 06/PM and No. 46/PM and Secretariat Order No. 11/SCC.
At 10 sites in Ban Sor, the task force seized 23 excavators, seven gold-sifting screens, one large generator, two small generators, a Ford pickup truck, a modified truck, three air-conditioned container units and 127 gold-capturing mats.
In Ban Vang Ma, inspectors found evidence of illegal mining at two sites near the Vang Ma Waterfall tourist area, along with a full set of mining machinery and equipment.
The task force is investigating to identify those responsible and any accomplices, with legal action to follow in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
The operation forms part of national efforts to strengthen oversight of mineral development and prevent illegal exploitation of natural resources
KPL
