Indigenous Communities Camp on Chinese-Owned Copper Mine Property in Peru
Members of indigenous communities camp on the property of Chinese-owned Las Bambas copper mine, in Las Bambas, Peru April 26, 2022. REUTERS/Angela Ponce
Eviction Plan Considered
Chinese-owned MMG Ltd’s huge Las Bambas copper mine in Peru is considering a plan to evict indigenous communities that have camped on the property and forced a production halt, according to an executive and a document seen by Reuters. Under Peruvian civil law, property owners can attempt to evict trespassers by force during the first 15 days after they have settled in the property. If that time period lapses, then they need to go through a lengthier legal process.
Communities Entered the Mine
People from the Fuerabamba and Huancuire communities entered the mine on April 14 and pitched tents inside the property, including near the mine’s massive open pit. Las Bambas, which produces 2% of global copper, halted operations on April 20.
Eviction Plan Timeline
“It’s still in the process of being decided,” Carlos Castro, Las Bambas head of corporate affairs, said in a text message, when asked about the eviction plan on Tuesday. “The repossession defense can be exercised within the 15 days established by law.” According to a letter from Peru’s official ombudsman seen by Reuters, Las Bambas is planning to attempt the eviction on Wednesday.
Community Leaders Prepare
On Tuesday, the Fuerabamba and Huancuire communities were preparing for a potential eviction, community leaders told a Reuters reporter who visited the site. Rumors had circled throughout the day about a potential attempt.
Community Background
The Fuerabamba community was resettled to make way for Las Bambas, one of the world’s largest copper mines, around a decade ago. The Huancuire community has sold land to Las Bambas.
Conclusion
The situation at Las Bambas highlights the ongoing tensions between indigenous communities and mining companies in Peru. As the eviction plan moves forward, it remains to be seen how the communities will respond and what the long-term implications will be for the mine and the surrounding areas.
FAQs
Q: Why are indigenous communities camping on the Las Bambas copper mine property?
A: The communities are protesting the lack of financial contributions from the mine and seeking greater compensation for the land they were forced to vacate to make way for the mine.
Q: What is the timeline for the eviction plan?
A: The plan is to attempt eviction on Wednesday, according to a letter from Peru’s official ombudsman.
Q: How has the mine responded to the situation?
A: In a text message, the head of corporate affairs, Carlos Castro, said the eviction plan is still in the process of being decided and that the repossession defense can be exercised within the 15 days established by law.
Q: What are the implications of the eviction plan for the mine and the surrounding areas?
A: The outcome of the eviction plan could have significant implications for the mine’s operations and the surrounding communities.