Two illegal mining operations along the Puruni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) have been dismantled as authorities intensify enforcement against unlawful mining activities in the interior.
The Ministry of Natural Resources said the latest coordinated exercise, carried out by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and the Guyana Police Force, uncovered two illegal mining sites at Kumung Kumung along the Puruni River on March 6 between 08:00 hrs and 12:00 hrs.
According to the ministry, a GGMC mining officer, accompanied by police ranks, found six Brazilian nationals and one Venezuelan national engaged in illegal mining activities during the operation.
Authorities have since instituted several charges against the landowners linked to the operations, including breaches of the riverbank buffer zone, diversion or alteration of the river’s natural flow, operating without a licence or permit, and mining without permission.
Additional violations include failure to produce a production book or declaration records, employing workers without valid work permits or certificates of registration, and failing to maintain registers for labourers and poisonous substances.
The foreign nationals were escorted to the Bartica Police Station for processing.
Meanwhile, an excavator, dragger, and other mining equipment used in the operations have been seized and placed under state control.
The ministry said steps have also been taken to ensure that the unlicensed operators bear the full cost of environmental reclamation resulting from the illegal activities.
In a statement, the ministry said the latest discovery adds to a series of illegal mining operations dismantled over recent months, as the government pushes for stricter compliance across the mining sector.
The ministry noted that the enforcement drive aligns with President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s calls for stronger oversight and greater adherence to mining laws, while urging miners and claim holders to regularise their operations and comply fully with Guyana’s regulations.
