The Ministry of Natural Resources and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) have started a crackdown on miners who continue to operate without relevant permits, moving to seize minerals from those operations, and shut them down.
In a release today, the Natural Resources Ministry and GGMC said they have started to work with the Guyana Police Force on a zero-tolerance policy against mining operations that have failed to meet their statutory obligations.
The move comes weeks after President Irfaan Ali met with stakeholders and warned that the Government intends to take stern action against miners who fail to meet the minimum standard to operate in the sector and who through that practice, have been robbing the state of taxes.
The Natural Resources Ministry said recent observations have revealed that several mining operations are functioning unlawfully, and without the necessary statutory instruments.
It was explained that the agencies have so far halted work at a number of operations and have seized their minerals, while initiating legal proceedings against the offenders.
“This crackdown is just the beginning; the government intends to extend these operations nationwide to address illegal and illicit activities within the small and medium-scale gold mining sector. We are committed to safeguarding our natural resources and ensuring that all mining operations adhere to the laws of the land,” the Ministry said in a statement.
The Ministry said the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to enforcing compliance and ensuring sustainable management of natural resources.
It explained that the zero-tolerance approach is essential to promoting a fair and sustainable mining industry in Guyana.
The Ministry urged all miners to comply with statutory obligations and operate within the legal framework to avoid severe penalties.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login