Five Foreign Nationals Detained in September 10 Illegal Mining Operation

Five foreign nationals, including Venezuelans, were detained on Thursday, September 10, after authorities uncovered an illegal mining operation in Guyana’s Potaro mining district.

The operation involved ranks from the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s Corps of Wardens.

Authorities seized mining equipment and a quantity of gold during the operation.

The Ministry of Natural Resources announced the arrests on Thursday, saying investigations were continuing.

The development comes amid an intensified government campaign against illegal mining in Guyana’s interior.

Authorities have repeatedly warned miners that they must obtain the necessary licences and operate in accordance with Guyana’s mining and environmental laws.

The involvement of foreign nationals also adds a border-security dimension to the operation.

The Natural Resources Ministry has previously said foreign nationals found engaging in illegal mining activities could face deportation.

Guyana’s interior mining districts are particularly difficult to police because of their remoteness and the extensive network of rivers, trails and mining camps.

Illegal operations can also undermine legitimate miners and deprive the state of revenue while creating environmental problems.

The latest operation demonstrates the government’s continuing effort to increase enforcement in the gold-producing regions.

The identities of the five detainees and whether charges have been formally laid were not immediately disclosed.

Investigators are expected to determine how the individuals entered the mining area, who controlled the operation and whether additional people were involved.