The Suntracs construction union — which played a leading role in protests that led to the mine’s closure late last year — is planning a march at the mine site.

Udokan planned to launch the first stage of the plant in the second quarter of 2024.

At least 54 workers died in mining-related accidents in South Africa last year.

The planned $14.9 billion deal has drawn criticism from Democratic and Republican lawmakers.

The miner removed de Montessus after discovering an alleged “irregular payment instruction” of $5.9 million related to an asset sale.

The company's smelter will not reach full capacity before December.

While the Lima-based company is known mainly for its precious metal mines, it also owns 20% of the giant Cerro Verde copper mine operated by Freeport-McMoRan.