**Bolivian Agro‑environmental Court Orders Suspension of Chinese Mining Cooperative’s Activities in Viacha**
*Viacha, Bolivia – August 31, 2026* – In a precautionary measures hearing held in the municipality of Viacha, the Agro‑environmental Court ruled in favor of the indigenous community known as Coloque Alta against the Chinese‑registered mining cooperative “Empresa Minera Boliviana Gold.”
The court’s decision, issued on Thursday, includes a prohibition on any further development (“innovar”) and an immediate suspension of the cooperative’s operations, including blasting, land exploration, and related mining activities. The ruling states that the cooperative had been operating “ilegalmente” (illegally) within the jurisdiction of Viacha.
The judgment was delivered after the community of Coloque Alta presented evidence alleging that the cooperative’s activities were conducted without the required permits and in violation of environmental regulations. The court’s order reflects the precautionary nature of the measures, aiming to prevent further potential environmental damage while the case proceeds.
The decision underscores ongoing tensions between mining enterprises and indigenous groups in Bolivia, particularly concerning compliance with environmental and land‑use laws. No comment has been received from representatives of Empresa Minera Boliviana Gold at the time of publication.
Article source: boliviaprensa.com | Image credit: InSight Crime
