The small rural town of Palo Quemado in Ecuador’s Cotopaxi province is currently a flashpoint of conflict between the local residents and the police. Tensions have escalated due to a mining concession granted to a Canadian company, Atico Mining Corporation. This project aims to extract gold, copper, and zinc from the region’s rich soils, which have traditionally been used for organic sugar cane cultivation, a vital income source for the community.
Since 2016, the company has been pursuing an environmental license necessary for the mining operation. However, the consultation process with the local population has been marred by controversies, with accusations of irregularities and exclusion of certain residents. Anti-mining activist Juan Carvajal from the neighboring municipality of Las Pampas reported police interference to block demonstrators’ access to the consultation site, located over 5 kilometers away from the village.
Videos and images shared on social media revealed a significant presence of law enforcement in Palo Quemado and violent clashes with demonstrators. Reports indicated the use of tear gas and projectiles by security forces, resulting in injuries to around twenty individuals, with three in serious condition.
The violent repression sparked outrage among the Ecuadorian population, leading to the formation of support groups for the residents of Palo Quemado. These groups aim to denounce the repression and support the community’s opposition to the mining project. The response from local authorities and law enforcement has been ambiguous, fueling ongoing tensions in the region.
The situation in Palo Quemado underscores the conflict between the interests of mining companies and the preservation of natural resources and local culture. As citizen mobilization grows and repression continues, ensuring a transparent and inclusive consultation process is crucial for democratic decision-making. The future of Palo Quemado hinges on balancing economic development with environmental protection while upholding the rights of local communities.