Illegal mining is threatening the tombs of 5 emperors and about 160 other members of Qing Dynasty's royal family in Hebei Province. The mineral rich region where the 300-year-old tombs are located has attracted several prospectors excavating for iron ore. The burial grounds were included on UNESCO's list of World Heritage sites seven years ago.

The first illegal mines emerged in the area two years ago. Local residents affirm that excavations are being carried out as deep as 80 meters below ground level.

Chinese law forbids mining and drilling in protected cultural heritage sites. A resident from nearby Huida village says that the mine owners have influential connections, which make it possible for them to keep up the illegal activity. Another villager reports that activity in the mines ceased temporarily pending an investigation by local authorities, but drilling resumed as soon as it was over.