Operator fined after illegal mining shut down in Essequibo River

An operator was recently fined after he pleaded guilty to illegal mining when he appeared at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court.

The operator was arrested during routine inspections in keeping with ongoing efforts to ensure strict compliance with the Guyana Mining Act and Regulations. The exercises were conducted on several mining operations in the Essequibo River.

According to a release from the Ministry of Natural Resources, of the nine operations inspected by the ministry’s Corps of Wardens, one was found to be in breach of regulations.

“At J-199/000/10, overseen by Jonathan Rodrigues, the inspection revealed that the operation lacked permission and was mining within a designated buffer zone,” the ministry stated.

The general manager, found in possession of 1 ounce 13 dwt of gold, was arrested, and placed before the court.

The seized gold was lodged at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) headquarters.

“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,” Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, stated in the released.

The ministry also reminded operators to conduct their business within the confines of the law as all offenders will be dealt with without fear or favour.