Prior to the discovery of the massive tunnel mining operation in the New River Basin, Toshao of Masakenari Paul Chekema said that residents frequently heard an airplane flying over the community and this was what prompted him to contact the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
Last week, a release from the GDF revealed that a Joint Operation conducted by the GDF in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) found a massive tunnel mining operation in the New River Basin, some 50 miles east of Masakenari (Gunns Village), South Rupununi.
The team, a release from the GDF said, located the camp and discovered three tunnels, one of which was abandoned, while the remainder were deemed active. The team also found several pieces of equipment, including a satellite dish. No one was found at the camp.