Latest update June 10th, 2026 12:35 AM
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Govt. reiterates zero-tolerance for illegal mining
…as five Brazilians deported
(Kaieteur News) – The Ministry of Natural Resources has reaffirmed the Government of Guyana zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining, following the recent arrest and deportation of several Brazilian nationals who were charged with illegal entry and illegal mining.
In a statement on Tuesday, the ministry welcomed swift action taken by the Guyana Police Force, in collaboration with other regulatory agencies, to arrest the five Brazilian nationals: Antonio Isal Das Soura, 49; Michael De Souza Martin, 26; Clinton Martins Fernandes, 19; Matheus Sere Martins, 20, all from Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil and Taiane Macedo Peixoto, 33, also of Boa Vista.
Michael De Souza Martin
Matheus Sere Martins
Antonio Isal Das Soura
Clinton Martins Fernandes
Taiane Macedo Peixoto
MNR highlighted that the action forms part of its ongoing efforts to eradicate illegal mining and to ensure that all operators comply with the country’s laws and regulations.
“Efforts to stamp out illegal mining remain critical to protecting Guyana’s environment, upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the nation’s natural resources for future generations. The ministry is also reminding all stakeholders that its enforcement campaign continues across all districts and those found in breach of the law will face the full extent of the legal system,” the ministry said.
Kaieteur News had reported that the five Brazilian nationals were fined and ordered to depart Guyana following convictions over illegal entry and mining.
The four men appeared at the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court on Friday, March 27, 2026, before Senior Magistrate Clive Nurse via Zoom. They were charged with illegal entry and illegal mining and all pleaded guilty. Each man was fined $30,000 GYD for illegal entry and an additional $30,000 GYD for illegal mining, or six weeks’ imprisonment in default. They were also ordered to leave Guyana within 24 hours.
Separately, Peixoto, who was charged only with illegal mining, pleaded guilty and was fined $30,000, or six weeks’ imprisonment in default.
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