The Guyana Women Miners Organisation (GWMO) is calling on the authorities to improve security in the mining districts, in the wake of the two recent murders in the North West District.
In a press release, the group said the lack of a police presence in these areas facilitates the commissioning of crimes such as murders which often remain unresolved, leaving grieving families distressed.
“It is sad to note that while gold prices continue to rise and the industry contributes heavily to the economy, the relevant authorities do not find it important to put mechanisms in place to protect the men and women who risk their lives to earn a better living,” the GWMO said.
The group also laments the accidents at Big Creek, North West District and Buck Hall in Region Two where two women miners lost their lives. The roads that miners are forced to traverse are “death traps” the GWMO said, adding that miners are putting themselves at risk every time they venture into the interior to work. As such, the group is calling on government to invest in interior roads.
