Over 50 pieces of equipment seized in crackdown on illegal mining

…44 arrested, charged

The Natural Resources Ministry has intensified its enforcement drive against illegal mining, resulting in the seizure of more than 50 pieces of mining equipment from unlicensed operations in the Northwest District, Region One (Barima-Waini).
The seizures were made during recent compliance and enforcement exercises conducted jointly by the Ministry and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) in the Eclipse Falls–North West area.
According to the Ministry, the confiscated items included mining engines, generators, water pumps, hoses, and gold detection equipment. Officials said the equipment was being used in violation of Guyana’s mining laws and regulations. All seized items have been detained and lodged at the Mines Station, pending further action.
The Ministry reiterated that illegal and unregulated mining poses significant environmental, economic, and safety risks and stressed that such activities will not be tolerated. The enforcement exercises form part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring compliance with the Mining Act and safeguarding Guyana’s natural resources.
It was also noted that similar operations will continue across the country, as the Government moves to dismantle illegal mining networks nationwide. The Ministry also assured that findings and breaches identified during enforcement activities will be made public, in keeping with commitments to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
The Natural Resources Ministry again urged miners and operators to ensure that all mining activities are properly licensed and conducted in accordance with national regulations.

Charges, convictions
Meanwhile, the Natural Resources Ministry has reported that 44 persons have been arrested, charged, and taken before the courts for engaging in illegal mining activities, as the Government continues its nationwide enforcement drive against unlicensed operations.
The individuals were found operating unlawfully in several mining districts and administrative regions, including Bartica and surrounding areas in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), as well as Mahdia and its environs in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). Illegal activities were also detected in other locations across the country.
The Ministry noted that several additional cases remain under active investigation, and further charges are expected as enforcement efforts continue.
Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat said the arrests and prosecutions demonstrate the Government’s commitment to upholding the law within the mining sector. He warned that illegal mining poses serious environmental, safety, and regulatory risks and will not be tolerated.
“Those who choose to operate outside of the law will be found, prosecuted, and held accountable,” Bharrat stated.

Intensified enforcement
Earlier this month, the Government intensified enforcement actions against illegal and non-compliant mining operations under a declared zero-tolerance policy. Working alongside the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Police Force, they shut down unlawful operations, seized minerals and equipment, and initiated legal proceedings against offenders found operating without the required licences and approvals.
The crackdown followed directives from President Dr Irfaan Ali for decisive action against miners who failed to meet statutory obligations, particularly gold declaration requirements to the Guyana Gold Board. As part of these measures, registered dredges with no declarations were targeted for deregistration, while foreign miners operating illegally were identified for prosecution and possible expulsion.
GGMC subsequently suspended the operations of 107 Brazilian nationals who failed to comply with declaration and verification requirements. The suspensions remain in effect pending full compliance, without prejudice to further enforcement action. Authorities also processed undocumented individuals and seized gold during joint operations conducted in Georgetown and other mining areas.
The Natural Resources Ministry, together with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), has also moved to ensure that all miners are properly registered, operate within the law, maintain local bank accounts, and sell gold through legitimate channels. Mining authorities have warned that continued non-compliance could result in severe penalties, including land repossession.
These actions are part of the Ministry’s effort to curb illegal gold trade.