Authorities have shut down an illegal mining operation in the Essequibo River, arresting the general manager, who was subsequently fined, the Ministry of Natural Resources said on Tuesday.
The operation, registered as J-199/000/10 and overseen by Jonathan Rodrigues, was found to be mining within a designated buffer zone without proper permission, according to inspections conducted by the ministry’s Corps of Wardens.
The general manager was found in possession of 1 ounce 13 dwt of gold. He appeared before the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court, pleaded guilty, and was fined. 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 jeopardise 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,” Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat said.
He added, “The ministry will therefore continue to intensify its efforts against illegal mining, in line with the call by His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali to address non-compliant operations.”
The ministry said inspections are ongoing, and the results of all breaches will be made public. Authorities also reminded operators to conduct their business within the confines of the law, warning that offenders will be dealt with “without fear or favour.”
