GGMC Clamps Down on Illegal Mining in Ireng

November 14 2025

The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has launched a joint-agency operation in the Ireng area as part of the Government of Guyana’s continued zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining activities.

The ongoing exercise has uncovered multiple unlawful mining operations, leading to the detention of equipment and minerals in keeping with established regulations. Several non-nationals were also taken into custody, with recommendations for charges expected where warranted.

According to the GGMC, these coordinated efforts will continue as authorities work to curb noncompliance across the mining sector. The Commission also expressed concern over attempts by some political groups to exploit the situation, reiterating that enforcement actions are strictly guided by the law, established procedures, and national interest—not political motives.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing all forms of illegal mining firmly and without exception. Relevant agencies remain actively engaged to ensure accountability and to uphold the mining standards designed to protect both the sector and the country.

See full statement below: 

“In keeping with the Government of Guyana’s zero-tolerance approach to illegal mining operations, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) is currently engaged in a joint-agency operation within the Ireng area to confront unlawful mining and related issues. As part of this exercise, several illegal mining operations were identified, resulting in the detention of equipment and minerals in accordance with regulations.

Several non-nationals were also arrested, and where appropriate, these actions will be followed by recommendations for charges. These joint operations will continue as part of the broader effort to reduce noncompliance in the mining sector.

The GGMC has also noted, with concern, that some political parties are attempting to exploit and inflame the situation for their own purposes. The commission does not support such actions and rejects any effort to politicise enforcement activities that are strictly guided by law, established procedure, and the national interest.

The Government of Guyana reiterates that these gross illegalities will be addressed firmly and without exception. All relevant agencies remain fully engaged to ensure the law is upheld, offenders are held accountable, and mining operations nationwide adhere to the standards and regulations designed to protect the sector and the country.”

Newell M. Dennison,
Commissioner, GGMC