GEORGETOWN, Guyana, Sept 10, CMC – Five non-nationals, including Venezuelans, have been detained following the discovery of an illegal mining operation in Guyana’s Potaro mining district.
The Ministry of Natural Resources said on Thursday that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) held the five as part of ongoing enforcement efforts against illegal mining.
Several pieces of mining equipment and a quantity of gold were seized during the operation.
The ministry said investigations are being conducted jointly by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s (GGMC) Corps of Wardens and the GPF.
It reiterated that there will be no tolerance for illegal mining and reminded miners and other stakeholders that they must obtain the necessary permissions and ensure their operations comply with Guyana’s mining and environmental laws.
The ministry said the GGMC, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, will continue surveillance and enforcement activities across all mining districts.
Those found operating outside the law will face the consequences, the ministry said.
It added that all non-nationals previously found involved in illegal mining activities are being deported.
CMC/ed/2026