GGMC shuts down 6 illegal mining operations in Region 7

The Natural Resources Ministry, through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), on Tuesday shut down six illegal mining operations in the Mazaruni Mining District, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).
According to the Ministry, the enforcement action was carried out following reports of illegal mining in the area. The operation involved a joint team from the GGMC wardens and the Guyana Police Force (GPF). On Tuesday, the Ministry said the six illegal operations were being conducted within a quarry area. The exercise resulted in the arrest of 38 individuals and the seizure of several pieces of equipment and machinery believed to have been used to support the unlawful activities. According to the Ministry that surveillance measures have since been put in place to monitor the area and prevent the resumption of illegal mining activities.

In a statement, the Ministry reiterated that illegal mining will not be tolerated and emphasised that the Government maintains a zero-tolerance approach to unlawful activities within the mining sector.
The Ministry said it will continue to work with relevant agencies to detect, disrupt and prosecute illegal mining operations across the country.