Police, GGMC probing mining dispute incidents at Toroparo

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) have launched a joint investigation into two separate but related incidents stemming from a land mining dispute in the Toroparo area, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). The incidents occurred on September 23 and September 30, 2025.
According to reports, the first altercation on September 23, which was captured on video, featured the voice of Mitchell Watson, who is reportedly an involved personnel connected to miner Ronaldo Alphonso, as well as GGMC rangers Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter. That encounter allegedly escalated into a confrontation during which members of Alphonso’s security team discharged firearms.
Just a week later, a second incident unfolded on September 30, also captured on video. In that footage, security agent Leon Wilkinson was seen as the main speaker, along with Ranger Edson Carter, security officer Randy Allen, and Juleth George, identified as a representative of GM Alphonso Mining, along with operator William Hill. The discussion appeared to reflect ongoing tensions and unresolved disputes between the parties involved.
In response to both incidents, police ranks from Region Seven moved in and arrested all individuals connected to the altercations. Law enforcement also seized the firearms believed to have been used in the earlier confrontation.
Authorities have since deployed a joint operational team comprising police ranks, led by an inspector, and GGMC officers, who remain in the area to maintain order and prevent further conflict. Investigations into the mining dispute and the circumstances surrounding the firearm discharges are ongoing.