Large Excavators Are Currently Employed In Gold Mining Activities In Close Proximity To Residential Areas In Ma Mon Kai Village

Pajau Media

4th February, 2025

Local reports indicate that five substantial excavators are currently engaged in gold mining activities in close proximity to residential areas in Ma Mon Kai Village, located within the Inndawgyi District of Mohnyin Township, Kachin State.

“At the end of 2024, a businessman from Ma Mon Kai village acquired 10 acres of farmland adjacent to the village for the purpose of gold mining. The sale price was set at 3,500 million kyats per acre, totaling 35,000 million kyats for the entire 10 acres. The land seller is obligated to pay 3,500 million kyats, which constitutes 10% of the total for the 10 acres, to armed groups. The gold mining operations are conducted under the condition of tax payments to these armed groups,” said a Ma Mon Kai villager.

In the vicinity of the road in Ma Mon Kai Village, illegal gold mining activities have persisted, utilizing large excavators since the military coup in 2021. By the conclusion of 2024, such mining operations had encroached upon residential areas within the village.

The aforementioned villager from Ma Mon Kai stated that the local residents are facing significant disturbances due to the continuous noise generated by gold mining activities, both day and night.

“The excavation of gold in proximity to residential areas results in significant noise from the machinery operating throughout the night, which disrupts sleep. Additionally, this situation poses health risks for the elderly,” he stated.

Following the military coup by the SAC, gold mining activities have significantly increased in the Inndawgyi region. This surge has resulted in natural disasters and exacerbated climate change, causing farmers to experience greater losses this year.

Furthermore, residents report that gold extraction is occurring in an ancient cemetery close to Ma Mon Kai village, with some individuals even engaging in gold mining activities adjacent to residential properties.

The Inndawgyi region, which is currently under a state of emergency due to ongoing conflicts, has been excluded from the election voting process. However, reports indicate a rise in illegal gold mining activities in the area.