HGP Nightly News – The Government of Guyana has stepped up its nationwide offensive against illegal mining, with forty-four individuals arrested, charged, and brought before the courts as enforcement operations expand across multiple mining districts.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources, authorities confirmed that the offenders were found operating unlicensed mining activities in several regions, including Bartica and surrounding communities in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), as well as Mahdia and nearby areas in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). Additional locations were also identified during ongoing inspections.
The Ministry said the arrests build on recent enforcement actions that resulted in the seizure of more than 50 pieces of mining equipment and related materials from illegal operations, as highlighted in a press release on January 22, 2026. According to officials, those charged have already appeared before the courts and were fined in keeping with existing laws.
Several additional cases remain under active investigation, and the Ministry indicated that further arrests and prosecutions are expected as operations continue.
The intensified enforcement push follows a directive from President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who has publicly called for the dismantling of illegal mining networks and the full restoration of compliance within Guyana’s mining sector.
Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat said the recent prosecutions demonstrate the government’s resolve to protect the country’s natural resources and uphold regulatory standards. He warned that illegal mining poses serious threats to the environment, public safety, and the long-term integrity of the sector.
“Those who choose to operate outside of the law will be found, prosecuted, and held accountable,” Bharrat stated.
The Ministry reaffirmed that enforcement efforts will continue nationwide, supported by sustained monitoring, inspections, and coordination with regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies. Officials stressed that the objective is not only to stop illegal activity but to ensure that mining operations across Guyana are conducted lawfully, responsibly, and in the national interest.
