Illegal mining, logging operations shut down as Guyana ramps up protection of natural resources

In a coordinated push to safeguard its natural resources and sovereignty, Guyana has intensified surveillance and enforcement operations across land, river and sea to combat illegal logging, mining and maritime crimes.

These efforts have resulted in the shutdown of illegal logging and mining operations in Regions 7, 8 and 9 over the past year.

This is according to Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Colonel Sheldon Howell.

“NISA is working with the Forestry Commission and the Geology and Mines Commission to monitor illegal logging and mining.

“We use drones, satellite imagery and other technology, alongside community intelligence, to provide the information needed to shut down those illegal mining operations,” Colonel Howell explained during the fourth episode of the “Safeguarding the Nation” programme.

Along the rivers, Colonel Howell said rapid-response units have intercepted several gold-smuggling operations and curbed unregulated dredging, particularly in border areas.

“We’re not waiting for damage to be done; we’re acting fast,” Colonel Howell emphasised.

Maritime security has also been significantly strengthened.

To this end, Colonel Howell said the Coast Guard, Maritime Administration (MARAD), Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit and the Guyana Police Force are jointly monitoring Guyana’s seas for illegal fishing vessels, including those from Venezuela, as well as combating drug and arms trafficking.

The deployment of advanced coastal radar systems and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) now enables real-time tracking and rapid response.

In the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), near offshore oil installations, maritime patrols have been increased and surveillance capabilities expanded with support from international and regional partners.

“Across all these efforts, NISA helps to bring the intelligence together so that if something suspicious occurs, there is no time lost in coordinating the response,” Colonel Howell noted.

He added: “These are not just plans; they are happening now. So if you observe illegal dredging, mining or a suspicious vessel, make the call. Your call could save lives or protect our national assets.”

Colonel Howell reiterated that Guyana’s patrimony is more than oil, gold or timber, describing it as the nation’s identity, future and sovereignty.