BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Chevron says it has resumed exploration for shale gas in northeastern Romania a day after suspending work when hundreds of anti-fracking protesters tore down fences.
Chevron said Sunday its priority was to conduct activities "in a safe and environmentally responsible manner." It won approval to drill exploratory wells in the town of Pungesti, but halted work for a second time Saturday after residents blocked access to the site.
Hundreds of riot police were unable to prevent protesters from demolishing fences and breaking into the site. Dozens were detained and 14 were charged with destruction of property and carrying knives.
Thousands of people have rallied across Romania in recent months to protest against government support for shale gas exploration. Chevron had resumed work at the site on Dec. 2.
