As many as 6,000 people living near a gold mine in Phichit province may have heavy metals in their blood, Central Institute of Forensic Science chief Porntip Rojanasunan said on Friday.
The institute under the Justice Ministry found manganese and arsenic in 329 out of 600 blood samples collected from locals living in Thap Khlo district near the mine, which is part of the Chatree Mining Complex operated by Akara Resources Plc. The company operates mines in Saraburi, Phitsanulok and Phetchabun provinces.
Institute chief Porntip conducted a new round of testing in Thap Khlo district this week following concerns about heavy metal contamination in communities living near the mine.
"The results are very worrying," Khunying Porntip said.
Manganese can cause neurological problems and, with extended exposure, symptoms resembling Parkinson's disease. Arsenic poisoning causes ailments ranging from headaches to convulsions to night blindness and strokes.
Akara Resources said on Thursday that the firm had cooperated with the institute while it was carrying out its tests.
"We are pleased to meet with Khunying Porntip as we believe she will conduct proper testing," Akara chief executive officer Pakorn Sukhum said before Khunying Porntip carried out her tests.
Mr Pakorn maintained that his company operates to the best international practices in health and environmental standards. "The fact that Chatree continues to be allowed to operate shows that we adhere to required standards and regulations," he said.
The firm said the most recent blood and urine tests it carried out were conducted in June for 800 Akara and sub-contractor workers and all the results showed arsenic and manganese levels within normal levels.