08:06 AM EDT, 06/17/2024 (MT Newswires) -- Adventus Mining ( ADVZF ) and Salazar Resources (SRL.V) on Monday said a previously obtained key authorization for the El Domo-Curipamba project is being challenged in the Ecuadorian courts.

Adventus obtained the environmental license for the mine's construction and operation phase on January 19 from the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition of Ecuador (MAATE).

The lawsuit, sponsored by a non-governmental organization, was accepted by a court in Bolivar province, Ecuador, and challenges the authorization issued by MAATE and the Attorney General's office. It names Curimining, which is owned by Adventus and Salazar, as an interested third party. The action requests the environmental license be rendered void alleging non-compliance with the environmental consultation process.

Based on an initial review of the legal action, the companies said they are confident that MAATE has strong evidence to refute the allegations presented. The environmental license remains in effect unless the legal action is proven to be successful.

Adventus also confirmed that its planned acquisition by Silvercorp Metals ( SVM ) is on track with the the final shareholder vote to be held June 26. The transaction is due to close on or about July 5.