Peru Reopens Mine Operations in Violence-Hit Pataz

On June 4, 2025, Peru’s government officially lifted the suspension on formal mining activities in northern regions affected by criminal violence—most notably Pataz, where 13 security staff were abducted and killed at the La Poderosa gold mine earlier in May. Defense Minister Walter Astudillo announced the decision followed consultations with registered mining companies and local authorities, acknowledging the urgent socio-economic need to restart operations in a region heavily reliant on mining for livelihoods. At the same time, the government extended the state of emergency in Pataz for another 60 days to enable security forces to maintain control amid persistent unrest.