Two water dredges and a quantity of gold have been seized after authorities uncovered a suspected illegal mining operation within the Puruni River’s buffer zone.

Three people linked to the operation were taken to Puruni Landing for questioning as police and mining officials continued their investigation.

The seizure occured on Thursday during an operation by Enforcement Department of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, with support from the Guyana Police Force.

According to the Ministry of Natural Resources, the enforcement team focused on mining activities taking place within the river’s buffer zone.

Mining within waterways and their buffer zones can disturb riverbanks, increase sediment in the water and affect communities that rely on rivers for domestic use, transportation and fishing.

The Ministry reminded miners that they are required to comply with Guyana’s mining laws and environmental regulations.

It said the Geology and Mines Commission and law-enforcement agencies will continue operations targeting illegal mining and activities that threaten the country’s waterways.

Gold seized from the illegal operation