SIX non-nationals, including five Brazilians and one Chinese national, have been detained following the discovery of an unauthorised underground mining operation in one of Guyana’s mining districts, the Ministry of Natural Resources said.
The individuals were detained on August 20 after authorities found them operating a mining shaft without the required licences, permissions, and regulatory approvals.
The operation was uncovered through a joint effort involving the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Corps of Wardens and the Guyana Police Force.
The six individuals remain in police custody as investigations into the operation continue.
The Ministry of Natural Resources said the enforcement action forms part of sustained efforts by the GGMC to detect and curb illegal mining activities across the country.
It warned that all mining districts remain under surveillance, and reiterated that the law applies equally to Guyanese and foreign nationals involved in mining.
“Any individual, Guyanese or foreign, found conducting mining activities in breach of Guyana’s laws and regulations will face the full force of the law,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry is also reminding miners and operators that they must obtain all required licences, permissions and regulatory approvals before commencing mining activities.
It stressed that compliance with Guyana’s mining laws is mandatory, and that violations will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
