AUTHORITIES have seized two water dredges and a quantity of gold after dismantling another illegal mining operation along the Puruni River, the Ministry of Natural Resources has reported.
The enforcement exercise was carried out on September 17, 2026, by the Enforcement Department of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), with support from the Guyana Police Force.

According to the ministry, the operation targeted mining activities being conducted within the river’s buffer zone as authorities continue efforts to clamp down on illegal mining and protect the country’s waterways.
During the exercise, two water dredges and a quantity of gold were seized.
Three persons associated with the operation were also escorted by police to Puruni Landing, where investigations are ongoing.
The latest enforcement action comes as the Ministry of Natural Resources continues to reinforce the requirement for miners and other stakeholders operating within the extractive sector to comply with the country’s mining laws and regulations.
The ministry has reminded stakeholders that mining operations must be conducted within the established legal and regulatory framework, particularly where activities could affect rivers and other waterways.
It said enforcement exercises will continue through the GGMC, in collaboration with law-enforcement agencies, as part of efforts to curb illegal mining activities and safeguard Guyana’s waterways.
“The ministry wishes to remind all stakeholders of their obligation to comply with mining laws and regulations,” the ministry said.
The authorities have not disclosed the quantity or value of the gold seized, while investigations into the operation remain ongoing.