The Chinese Embassy in Papua New Guinea on Tuesday issued a notice reminding Chinese citizens not to engage in illegal gold mining and smuggling activities in the country.

According to the notice, recent cases have again seen Chinese nationals apprehended, detained and deported by local law enforcement authorities for involvement in illegal gold mining and gold smuggling.

Under Papua New Guinea’s laws governing mineral resource development, individuals and entities must obtain the necessary permits before engaging in gold mining. Any activities conducted beyond the approved scope are considered illegal and are not protected by law. Illegal alluvial gold mining and gold smuggling constitute serious violations, per the notice.

The Chinese Embassy once again solemnly reminds Chinese citizens and institutions in the country not to engage in illegal gold mining or smuggling activities, to effectively enhance their awareness of security risks, and to ensure the safety of their lives and property.

It also advised Chinese enterprises engaged in gold mining to report their operations to the embassy in a timely manner, and to immediately contact local police and the embassy in case of emergencies.