Ecuador's Defense Minister Gian Carlo Loffredo has announced a military operation aimed at dismantling illegal mining operations within Podocarpus National Park, which have reportedly taken over the area for years. Loffredo emphasized that the interventions are intended to restore control of the park, with the armed forces focusing on locations where illegal mining camps and machinery are located.

The military's efforts, which have been ongoing for over eleven days, have already led to the recovery of about 130 hectares previously occupied by illegal mining activities. So far, they have impacted 129 illegal mining camps and disrupted these unauthorized mining economies, with financial implications estimated at over $3 million. This shows a significant commitment by the Ecuadorian government to protect both its citizens and its natural resources.

Loffredo reiterated that the priority of these operations is to safeguard Ecuadorian families and the integrity of their land. The campaign underscores a growing recognition of the environmental and social issues posed by illegal mining, as well as a hands-on approach by the Ecuadorian government to reclaim public lands from unauthorized exploitation.