Ecuadorian Drug Trafficking Routes Expand to Peru
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Issue Jun 01-11 2025: In recent years, drug gangs have expanded their operations along the border of Peru and Ecuador to launder their exports to other countries such as the United States and China.
In an investigation by Ojo Público Magazine of Peru and Código Vidrio, it was revealed how the spread of these drug trafficking gangs is linked with the mining companies Goldenminerals and Techgolden.
Records show that Goldenminerals does not have its mining contract. Yet, the investigation also revealed that the company mined tons of gold ore in 2023, but deliberately concealed the destination of the exports from mining authorities. The company signed an operating contract with Miezul and a mandate agreement with Techgolden. Officials from the contract registrations are currently being investigated for allegedly signing illegal agreements. The owners of Goldenminerals were already arrested after being accused of trafficking eight tons of cocaine to Spain.
Techgolden is based in Ecuador, a country where entrepreneurs and contractors can exploit gold ore without direct mining concessions, and it is the leading exporter in small-scale mining. However, their contract with Goldenminerals once came under investigation. Documents show that Techgolden owes Goldenminerals more than $13,000 for their services between 2023 and 2024. Furthermore, a review of Techgolden’s documents also revealed various discrepancies in their production reports. In response to inquiries about their finances, company representative José Bravo denied any relations or gold exports with Goldenminerals and its shareholders.
The use of mining contracts is a result of specific oversight in Ecuador’s mining business that makes companies’ success difficult and fosters criminal activity. Ecuador has 380 illegal mining hotspots, which have generated more than USD 1.3 billion in gold exports. Reforms for these regulations are in process. These would add requirements and restrict mining concessions.
On the borders of Peru, illegal mining and criminal activity also run rampant. Recently, on the Cumbaratza airstrip, a plane raid revealed two kilos and 538 grams of gold dust. Its holders had no proper documentation for the mineral purchase. Additionally, many Ecuadorian criminal groups, such as Los Lobos and Los Choneros, have been discovered engaged in illegal mining activities on the border of Peru.