Summary
Southern Copper Corporation (SCCO) announced on May 10, 2010, that its subsidiary, Mexicana de Cobre S. A. de C. V. (Mexcobre), experienced an unauthorized entry into its smelter complex in Esqueda, Sonora, by an armed group of individuals reportedly linked to a mining union. The group's intention was to seize control of the complex and displace workers from a different, recognized union. In response to the situation and to prioritize worker safety, Mexcobre initiated a controlled work stoppage at the smelter complex. However, operations were successfully reestablished the following morning. The company has formally reported the incident to federal and state authorities. This event highlights potential operational risks and labor disputes within its Mexican operations.
Key Highlights
- 1Unauthorized entry by an armed group at Mexcobre's smelter complex in Esqueda, Sonora.
- 2The group was allegedly linked to a mining union led by Napoleon Gomez Urrutia.
- 3The stated intention of the group was to take control of the complex and evict workers affiliated with a different union.
- 4Mexcobre declared a controlled work stoppage to ensure worker safety and avoid injuries.
- 5Operations at the smelter complex were reestablished the morning after the incident.
- 6Mexcobre has reported the situation to federal and state authorities.