Two more illegal mining operations dismantled, equipment seized

The Ministry of Natural Resources hereby advises that its intensified enforcement exercise against illegal mining activities continues to yield considerable results across Guyana’s mining districts.

A coordinated operation conducted by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Police Force, led to the discovery of two illegal mining sites along the Puruni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

On March 6, 2026, between 08:00 hrs and 12:00 hrs, a GGMC mining officer along with police ranks, conducted an exercise at Kumung Kumung along the Puruni River during which six Brazilian nationals and one Venezuelan national were found working illegally.

Following the operation, the GGMC instituted several charges against the land owners. These charges are as follows:

• breaching the buffer area of the river bank,
• diverting or altering the natural flow of the river,
• operating without a licence or permit,
• operating without permission to mine,
• unable to produce a production book or any form of declaration,
• employing workers without work permits or certificates of registration,
• unable to produce a register of labourers,
• unable to produce a register of poisonous substances.

The foreign nationals were escorted to the Bartica Police Station for processing while an excavator, dragger and other equipment used in the illegal operations have been placed in the State’s possession. The ministry has taken the necessary steps to ensure all costs for environmental reclamation are covered by the unlicensed operators.

The discovery of these two illegal mining operations, among others which have been dismantled over the past few months, is a testament to the importance of His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s call to ensure greater compliance in the mining sector.

As the ministry continues to fulfill the mandate set by President Ali, all miners and claim holders are urged to take the necessary steps to ensure their operations conform with Guyana’s mining laws and regulations (Ministry of Natural Resources press release)