Authorities arrested two Chinese nationals in Zamboanga Norte for alleged illegal gold processing and immigration violations. (Image: Google Map)
IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay— Authorities arrested two Chinese nationals in Zamboanga del Norte for their alleged involvement in an unauthorized gold processing operation, officials said Wednesday, March 4.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Sibutad Municipal Police Station led the operation on March 3, with security support from the Philippine Army under Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN, including the 102nd Infantry (Igsoon) Brigade and the 97th Infantry Battalion.
BI mission order against the Chinese nationals
The arrests were carried out under BI Mission Order No. 2026-089 for alleged violations of Section 37(a)(7) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, which covers overstaying and engaging in gainful activity without the proper visa or permit.
Authorities identified the suspects as Tao Zhang, 59, from Shaanxi Province, China; and Chenggong Zhang, 41, from Hubei Province, China.
Investigators said the two were found operating a gold ball milling facility used to process mineral ore in Sibutad town. Officials said the activity constituted unauthorized mineral processing if conducted without the required permits and regulatory clearance.
Risks of unregulated mineral processing
Security officials warned that unregulated mineral processing can pose environmental and economic risks, particularly if done outside government oversight. Residents had earlier raised concerns about the condition of the facility. They also reported the disputes over rental payments with the property owner, authorities said.
Officials stressed that the operation is part of broader government efforts to curb illegal or unregulated exploitation of natural resources. They noted that unauthorized mineral processing and illegal mining can lead to soil degradation, water contamination, and unsafe conditions for nearby communities.
The two Chinese nationals were turned over to the Bureau of Immigration for inquest and possible deportation proceedings.
Authorities said they will continue to monitor whether foreign nationals engaged in business activities in the Philippines comply with immigration and environmental laws.
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