Peru Informal Mining Attack 2026: 3 Dead and 7 Missing in New Year’s Eve Raid

Gunfire shattered the New Year's Eve celebrations in Peru's northern highlands. On January 1, 2026, officials reported that an attack on an informal gold mine has left at least 3 people dead and 7 others missing, marking a violent start to the year in one of the world's most dangerous mining corridors.

Inside the Peru Informal Mining Attack in Pataz

The raid took place near the town of Vijus in the Pataz province, an area notorious for clashes between criminal syndicates. Aldo Marino, the Mayor of Pataz, told local media that the violence erupted just an hour before midnight. While 3 fatalities are confirmed, Marino warned that the death toll could climb to 15 as search operations continue at the mine entrance.

Local prosecutors recovered 11 shell casings from the scene, and police have already taken two suspects into custody. The mining firm Poderosa stated its security teams heard the shots and discovered the bodies shortly after approaching the crime scene.

Criminal Control and the Illicit Gold Trade

This isn't an isolated incident. In May 2025, the same region saw 13 miners killed in a similar flare-up, leading to a temporary state of emergency. Peru's gold sector is booming, with exports hitting $15.5bn in 2024. However, roughly 40% of this gold originates from illicit enterprises, according to financial watchdogs.

The government's attempt to formalize the industry has been rocky. Last July, authorities suspended the REINFO permits of 50,000 small-scale miners. While meant to curb illegal activity, it's seemingly intensified the competition among gangs desperate to control the remaining lucrative, unregulated sites.