According to a press release issued by MiningWatch Canada, an organization working to change public policy and mining practices to ensure the health of individuals, communities and ecosystems, approximately 100 soldiers and officers of the Mexican Army and Federal and state police agencies used force to break through the peaceful protest taking place in front of the La Platosa mine, owned by a subsidiary of Excellon Resources, Inc. (TSX: T.EXN, Stock Forum).
The La Platosa silver mine is currently Excellon’s flagship asset. It produced 436,351 ounces of silver in the three months ended March 31, 2012.
Authorities took action in order to re-open the road to the mine and permit workers to enter the facilities.
The blockade consists of 100 men, women and children who are members of the community La Sierrita, known as the Ejido, who have maintained a peaceful camp in front of the mine since July 8 of this year.
The Ejido, who want to see a water treatment plant constructed near the mine site, is demanding that the company comply with the land rental agreement signed between the two parties in 2008.
Currently, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights and the Durango State Human Rights Commission are investigating the matter and have insisted that the Mexican government ensure the safety and freedom of the Ejido members and workers of the Local 309.
Excellon is a mineral resource company operating in Mexico and Canada. The company says it is committed to building value through production, expansion and discovery.
On Tuesday, Excellon was trading at $0.345 a share. The company has a market cap of $94.9 million, based on 275 million shares outstanding. The 52-week high and low was $0.80 and $0.33 respectively.