The dredge operators who were illegally mining on Micobie lands in Region Eight are still refusing to refill the land they have excavated to conduct mining operations, Toshao Cleveland Henry yesterday revealed.
He said although the operators were ordered to refill the land by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) almost two weeks ago, the owner of the dredges are still refusing to do so.
“They were also told the leave this area of the river but they are still parked close by and they are not moving. They are not even trying to refill the land they have dug up,” the Toshao lamented.
Henry went on to say the village council is patiently awaiting the decision of GGMC who had told them more than a week ago that they would decide if it was necessary to seize the mining equipment but as of yesterday, they hadn’t received any information from the GGMC.
The Toshao added that they will be visiting the commissioner of the GGMC today because they want a swift end to this problem as the Village Council and residents are prohibited from mining on their own lands until the issue is resolved.
According to the Deputy Toshao, Vanessa Domingo, the owner of the four hydraulic dredges and two excavators that are in the area, is claiming the land on Micobie’s titled land and both the owner and the village council have since been issued cease orders until the matter is resolved.
More than two weeks ago, the GGMC served a removal order to operators of the dredges after environmental and land rights concerns were raised by the Micobie Village Council in Region Eight. Domingo had previously told Stabroek News that operators of the dredges have been using an excavator to clear land on the bank of the river and engaging in dredging activities. She said that this has resulted in major erosion on the right bank of the Potaro River.
The operators remained in the area despite several notices by the Village Council and a cease order from GGMC.
