Colombian policemen lead the last stage of a major operation to dismantle and implode tunnels at unauthorized gold mines in the Farallones National Park, to combat environmental destruction and illegal gold mining. The effort highlights the environmental and social toll of illegal mining, including mercury contamination in waterways and the exploitation of local resources. Officials emphasize the operation’s challenges, citing difficult terrain and high altitudes, but laud its success in preserving one of Colombia's vital ecosystems. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES