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Jul 03, 2016 News
Authorities have launched an investigation into a possible cover-up of a mining accident last month that left a Russian geologist dead.
According to information reaching Kaieteur News late last week, a team from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) was supposed to travel to the Annamuri Backdam, Mazaruni, Region Seven to investigate the incident.
The mining operation is reportedly owned by a company named Innovative Mining Inc., controlled by businessman Parmeshwar ‘Joe’ Jagmohan.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, disclosed that indeed that was an incident.
The official said that from information filtering in from GGMC, the Russian geologist, whose name was given as Oleg, and a mining worker, Kenneth Smith, were both in a newly dug trench taking samples when one of walls collapsed, covering them. The trench was about 10 feet deep and 45 feet long.
The Russian died on spot while an injured Smith was taken for medical help.
According to Minister Broomes, from her information, the Ministry of Social Protection was notified and a team was flown in to investigate.
However, GGMC is concerned why the company took several days to notify the entity of the accident.
GGMC received the letter on June 23 but it was dated June 20th.
According to mining officials, the report from the company is incomplete and there will be an investigation into whether the Russian had the relevant documents and whether the company had indeed entered a joint venture without filing for the relevant permits.
There have been number of deadly accidents over the past year with the administration announcing a zero tolerance for any breaches found.
There have been increased monitoring but miners reportedly have continued to take risks.
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