Authorities have seized two water dredges and a quantity of gold during an operation targeting alleged illegal mining activities along the Puruni River, the Ministry of Natural Resources said.
The enforcement exercise was carried out on September 17 by officers from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s Enforcement Department, with support from the Guyana Police Force.
According to the ministry, the operation focused on mining activities taking place within the river’s buffer zone.
During the exercise, officers dismantled what the ministry described as another illegal mining operation and confiscated the two dredges along with gold recovered at the location.
Three persons associated with the operation were escorted by police to Puruni Landing as investigations continue.
The ministry did not disclose the quantity or estimated value of the gold seized, nor did it identify the three persons.
In a statement issued Saturday, the Ministry of Natural Resources reminded miners and other stakeholders that they are required to comply with Guyana’s mining laws and regulations.
It said the GGMC, working alongside law enforcement agencies, will continue enforcement operations aimed at curbing illegal mining and protecting the country’s waterways.
