Soma Gold Corp. announced a temporary suspension of mining and processing activities at its el Bagre mine and mill in Antioquia, Colombia, due to a community blockade. This action by the local community has restricted access for employees and supplies, leading to a Care and Maintenance status for the site.
The blockade began on July 3, driven by community frustration over delays in local road maintenance and paving. Despite ongoing efforts by Soma and municipal authorities to address these concerns through a cost-sharing plan for paving approximately 3.5 km of regional road, the community has expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of progress. Soma has successfully negotiated with the community to allow access for critical supplies, security, and maintenance crews, ensuring essential operations continue.
Discussions between all parties are ongoing, with a mutual goal of resolving the situation promptly. Soma recently completed a planned maintenance shutdown of the el Bagre mill, which included a successful rebuild of the ball mill. Operations resumed on schedule in late June.