The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission has shut down a mining operation in the Essequibo river that it has found to be illegal.
The GGMC has been working along with the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Police Force to intensify efforts to ensure strict compliance with the Guyana Mining Act and Regulations.
In a release, the Ministry noted that it recently conducted inspections on several mining operations in the Essequibo River. A total of nine operations were inspected by its Corps of Wardens, and one of those operations was found to be in breach of regulations.
According the Ministry, the inspection revealed that the operation lacked permission and was mining within a designated buffer zone.
“We will not tolerate illegal activities that undermine our laws and jeopardize our natural resources. We will remain steadfast in honouring our commitment to rigorous enforcement of the law to safeguard the integrity of our mining sector. The ministry will therefore continue to intensify its efforts against illegal mining, in line with the call by His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to address non-compliant operations,” Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat was quoted in the release as saying.
The Ministry said the General Manager of the illegal mining operation was found in possession of 1 ounce 13 dwt of gold. He was arrested and placed before the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court where he pleaded guilty and was fined. The seized gold was lodged at the GGMC headquarters.
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