The Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority (ICSA) has confirmed the extraction of over 100 suspected foreign nationals who were unlawfully engaged in alluvial mining activities in Morobe Province.
A total of 105 suspects, all of a single nationality, were apprehended in five illegal mining sites along the Sambio river in the Wau Waria district.
The operation was conducted in the early hours of yesterday morning through an intelligence-led joint effort between PNG Immigration and the Police.
Chief Migration Officer Wellington Navasivu confirmed that the individuals arrived in Port Moresby at midday today and were being held in immigration detention awaiting administrative removal from the country.
The suspects were found to be in breach of several provisions under the Migration Act and the Employment of Non-Citizens Act.
The breach includes working at unauthorised locations, absence of valid work permit documentation, engagement in employment inconsistent with visa conditions and providing false information to immigration officers.
Mr Navasivu said the suspects were flown to Port Moresby today and will be held in detention until all administrative processes are completed and they will be removed from the country.
“We will ensure the individuals are placed on alert and will not return,” Mr Navasivu gave his assurance.
“The company and their sponsors who brought them into the country will be held responsible and necessary administrative and compliance charges will apply”.
The ICSA reiterates its commitment to upholding the integrity of Papua New Guinea’s immigration laws and ensuring that all non-citizens comply with legal requirements whilst in the country.