In recent river control operations, the Colombian Navy discovered mercury in the Cauca River, in the general area of Nechí, Antioquia.
Troops from the Marine Infantry Riverine Battalion No.17 and the National Army, who oversee control and surveillance in the Colombian Caribbean waterways, received intel regarding possible concealed mercury in parts of the river to elude authorities. This prompted the deployment of a Public Force team for inspection.
A plastic container holding 510 grams of mercury was found at the site in Antioquia. This substance was allegedly meant for illicit mining activities on the river, posing serious health risks to individuals, potential ecosystem damage, and significant environmental impact. Notably, each gram of this metal has the potential to contaminate over 30,000 liters of water.
No arrests were made during the operation, and the seized material was handed over to the relevant authorities.