Security concerns a key theme at meeting between Minister, jewellers

Ramdas Singh (right) airing his concerns to the minister.

By Abigail Headley

Amid widespread concerns about illicit gold dealings, a meeting was hosted yesterday by the Ministry of Natural Resources with jewellers and qualms about  security were raised.

The meeting commenced with the insistence from the officials present that gold be purchased only from the Guyana Gold Board (GGB). 

As jewellers were encouraged to air their concerns and make enquiries at the meeting, Ramdas Singh from Bushlot Berbice shared the harrowing tales of intimidation and violence experienced by him and his son at the hands of armed robbers. Earlier in the meeting, Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat pointed out that there have been calls for the GGB to be present in locations across the country. This he said was an unreasonable request.