On June 23, the Gold Sector Regulation Commission (OGS) took action against illegal gold mining activities in the immediate vicinity of schools in Brokopondo Centrum. During a mission to the area, small-scale gold miners who were operating near educational institutions were removed.
According toOGS, several gold miners had already been removed from the area, but shortly thereafter another group returned to continue their illegal activities. Among other things, the work created a bypass, allowing creek water to flow into one of the school grounds.
During the operation, the gold miners present were approached and ordered to leave the area immediately. They offered no resistance and complied with the authorities’ instructions. Subsequently, camps and huts in the area were destroyed to prevent the sites from being reused for gold mining in the near future.
OGS emphasizes that mining activities have no place within or in the immediate vicinity of schools. The committee states that illegal activities will not be tolerated, especially when they affect the safety, health, and living environment of schoolchildren.
In addition to damage to the environment, OGS also highlights the health risks associated with gold mining, particularly the use of mercury. Mercury poses a danger to people and the environment and can cause further damage through waterways.
Registration Project for Gold Prospectors
During the mission, the gold miners were also briefed on the national registration project for small-scale gold miners, which is set to begin shortly. OGS explained the importance of registration for both the miners and the State of Suriname.
According to the committee, registration should contribute to a better-organized, transparent, and sustainable gold sector. Registered miners may be eligible for support, guidance, and training, among other things.
OGS says it will continue to rely on a combination of dialogue and enforcement to support the further formalization of the small-scale gold mining sector.
