The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) on Monday announced the suspension of 107 mining operations owned by Brazilian nationals.
According to a statement from the Commission, the named individuals are required to present themselves to the GGMC. Their operations, along with all permissions and related authorisations, have been subjected to immediate suspension.
The GGMC noted that these suspensions take effect immediately and will remain in force pending the affected persons’ engagement with and compliance to the satisfaction of the Commission.
Eighty-four percent of the identified owners reportedly have local addresses in Georgetown, with a large percentage listed at addresses on Robb Street.
The announcement comes two days after the Ministry of Natural Resources executed a joint operation in Central Georgetown with support from the Guyana Police Force. During that operation, several undocumented persons were processed, gold was seized, and the verification of persons of interest was successfully completed.
The Ministry said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and the trading of precious metals in Guyana. It reaffirmed government’s strict zero-tolerance policy towards illegal mining activities, stressing that the measures are aimed at safeguarding national resources and ensuring compliance with all regulations governing the mining sector.
Similar operations, the Ministry added, will be conducted across the country to enforce compliance with applicable laws and regulations.