Seven foreign nationals detained; illegal mining sites dismantled, equipment seized at Puruni

Two illegal mining sites were dismantled and equipment seized during a joint enforcement operation along the Puruni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), the Ministry of Natural Resources said.
The operation, carried out by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Police Force, led to the discovery of the illegal sites at Kumung Kumung along the Puruni River between 08:00 hrs and 12:00 hrs on March 6.
During the exercise, authorities found six Brazilian nationals and one Venezuelan national working illegally at the sites.
The GGMC has since instituted several charges against the landowners, including breaching the buffer area of the river bank, diverting or altering the natural flow of the river, operating without a licence or permit, and operating without permission to mine.
Additional violations include the failure to produce a production book or any form of declaration, employing workers without work permits or certificates of registration, and being unable to provide a register of labourers or a register of poisonous substances.
The foreign nationals were escorted to the Bartica Police Station for processing.
Authorities also seized an excavator, a dragger and other equipment used in the illegal mining operations, placing them in the State’s possession.
The ministry said steps have been taken to ensure that the unlicensed operators cover all costs associated with environmental reclamation at the sites.
The enforcement exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance in the mining sector, in keeping with calls by President Irfaan Ali for greater adherence to Guyana’s mining laws and regulations.
Miners and claim holders have been urged to ensure their operations comply fully with the country’s mining regulations.