The Ministry of Natural Resources wishes to advise that three miners, including two non-nationals, have been detained in connection with illegal mining along the Siparuni riverbank.

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s (GGMC) Enforcement Team found that machinery had been placed on the bank and a river dredge directed into it to extract minerals. The operation damaged the riverbank, and the team is assessing the extent of that damage.

The team seized the river dredge and associated equipment, including a motor vehicle. The matter has been handed over to the Guyana Police Force for further investigation.

The miner responsible for the operation will be required to account for the gold mined in the area as well as cover the reclamation costs for the damaged site.

The ministry reiterates that mining must be conducted in accordance with the required approvals and environmental safeguards. Operators will be held accountable for illegal activities and the rehabilitation of areas damaged by their operations.