Northern Governor Juffa Flags Surge in Foreign-Run Alluvial Mines in PNG
Papua New Guinea's Northern Province Governor Gary Juffa has raised red flags over the growing dominance of expatriates in alluvial mining activities in Morobe’s Wau-Bulolo district.
Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Juffa said he was shocked during a recent site visit to find that many operations were being conducted by foreign nationals rather than locals.
 |
| Northern Governor Juffa Flags Surge in Foreign-Run Alluvial Mines in PNG |
He criticized the lack of action by agencies responsible for oversight, questioning what steps are being taken by the Police, Labour, Immigration, Mining, and Commerce departments.
"The sector meant for Papua New Guineans is being overtaken," Juffa told Parliament. He also cited a notable decline in gold export volumes, suggesting illegal smuggling may be occurring.
Juffa warned of a growing influx of Chinese and other foreign workers using heavy equipment and sidelining Papua New Guinean miners.
In response, Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso admitted the issue is widespread and explained that many locals partner with foreign nationals, sometimes unwittingly allowing them to dominate the operations.
Rosso said government agencies will meet soon to chart a path forward and address the problem.
read more mining news on >> Pacific Mining Watch
Also read
Post a Comment