News|MiningPeruvian municipal officials say three killed in attack on informal mineLocal officials say the death toll could rise as seven people are missing following the attack on New Year’s Eve.

Local authorities have reported that at least three individuals were killed and seven remain missing following an attack on an informal mining site in northern Peru. The incident occurred near the town of Vijus in the La Libertad department on New Year's Eve.

According to Pataz Mayor Aldo Marino, three individuals were confirmed dead at the mine entrance, with the potential for the death toll to increase as more bodies might be uncovered. Informal mining operations are often contested by criminal groups in the region.

The area, known for its gold mines, including the prominent Lagunas Norte, has seen the emergence of informal mining operations. These operations are often conducted by local residents and criminal groups seeking economic gain.

In May of the previous year, 13 miners were killed in the region, leading to a 30-day suspension of mining activities and implementation of a night-time curfew by local authorities.

Following the recent incident, two arrests have been made, and an investigation is underway. Local prosecutors have reported the recovery of 11 shell casings from the scene.

Many informal miners in the region operate under temporary permits, known as REINFO permits, issued by the government. In July, approximately 50,000 of these permits were suspended as part of a formalization process, allowing about 30,000 miners to continue operations.

In 2024, Peru exported $15.5 billion worth of gold, an increase from $11 billion the previous year. The national financial watchdog estimates that approximately 40% of this gold originates from illicit sources.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.