In July 2025, tensions surrounding AngloGold Ashanti’s proposed Quebradona copper mine in Jericó, Colombia, escalated sharply after local farmers and environmental defenders were charged withserious offenses, including kidnapping and theft. These charges stem from confrontations during a protest in which community members dismantled company equipment and physically blocked access to drilling areas. The legal actions have sparked outrage among local organizations, who view the charges as part of a broader strategy to criminalize dissent and intimidate those opposing the project.
The controversy reflects deep-rooted concerns among residents about the potential environmental impacts of the mine, particularly on water sources that sustain the region’s agricultural economy. Many locals fear contamination of aquifers and long-term damage to the ecosystems of the Cauca River basin. Critics argue that the company failed to adequately address these risks during environmental assessments and has not meaningfully engaged with the community. These fears have been compounded by the perception that legal tools are being used to silence opposition rather than promote dialogue.
The Quebradona case illustrates how the absence of a genuine social license to operate can destabilize even well-funded and technically advanced mining projects. Community trust, environmental accountability, and inclusive decision-making are not optional—they are prerequisites for long-term viability. When these elements are ignored, conflicts escalate, legal processes become politicized, and social cohesion breaks down. For the mining sector, Quebradona is a cautionary tale: legitimacy on the ground is as important as any mineral found beneath it.