Copper theft sparks scrap-metal crackdown

Sep 06, 2026 News

…ministry threatens to shut down trade

(Kaieteur News) – The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has issued a stern warning to scrap-metal dealers and the wider public following the theft and attempted sale of some $1.6 million in copper cable stolen from the Demerara River Bridge.

The Ministry said the individuals linked to the incident were not licensed scrap-metal dealers, and warned that anyone involved in the illegal purchase, sale or movement of stolen copper will face the full force of the law. “The persons identified in connection with the incident were not licensed scrap-metal dealers,” the Ministry said in a statement.

Copper theft sparks scrap-metal crackdown

Granted bail, Mustafid Pashaw

Jailed for stealing copper cable from the Demerara River Bridge, Roy Morgan

It further disclosed that the individual who allegedly purchased the stolen copper and is currently on bail is a repeat offender, having been implicated in a similar incident earlier this year. The Ministry placed all licensed dealers on notice that there will be zero tolerance for dealing in stolen metal.

“No dealer will be permitted to facilitate, purchase, sell, receive or otherwise deal in illegally obtained copper,” the Ministry warned. It said any licensed dealer caught handling stolen copper could have their licence immediately cancelled, in addition to facing prosecution where applicable.

The tough warning comes as authorities move to clamp down on the growing abuse of the scrap-metal trade, particularly the theft and destruction of public infrastructure. “The destruction of public infrastructure and the theft or unlawful removal of private property will not be tolerated,” the Ministry said. It went further, warning that continued illegal activity could result in the scrap-metal trade being shut down altogether.

“If the illegal practices within this trade continue, the Ministry will not hesitate to take the necessary steps to cancel the scrap-metal trade altogether,” it declared. The warning follows the arrest and prosecution of two men in connection with the Demerara River Bridge copper theft.

This newspaper reported on Saturday that Roy Morgan, 39, who admitted to stealing the copper cable, was jailed for 12 months after pleading guilty to simple larceny. Morgan was arrested on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, and appeared on Friday at the Diamond/Grove Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Dylon Bess, where he pleaded guilty. Meanwhile, Albouystown businessman Mustafid Pashaw, called “Mustaf,” 51, of Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, was charged with receiving stolen articles after the stolen cable was allegedly found at his residence. Pashaw appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Faith McGusty. He was not required to plead to the charge and was granted $300,000 bail.

As part of his bail conditions, Pashaw must report to the Ruimveldt Police Station on the third Friday of every month. The matter has been adjourned to October 2, 2026. The Ministry said it remains committed to protecting the integrity of the scrap-metal industry and will take “decisive regulatory and enforcement action” against persons operating outside the law.

Discover more from Kaieteur News

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Copper theft, scrap-metal

Latest News