Rosebel Gold Mines N.V. (RGM) holds exploration rights in the Overman area, including Pelinbergi, but does not have exploitation rights there to commercially extract gold or other minerals. The company states that the mining activities currently taking place in the area are not being carried out by RGM and have not been authorised by the company.
RGM emphasised in a statement on Wednesday, September 23, that it is permitted to conduct research into possible minerals in the area, but may not carry out commercial mining or extraction there. The company also states that it has never given permission to other parties to conduct mining activities there. According to RGM, the reported extraction is not being carried out by the company, nor on its behalf.
Activities reported since 2020
According to RGM, the unauthorised activities were identified as early as January 2020 and reported to the competent government authorities that same month. The company says it has since repeatedly requested action against the illegal miners.
Since Zijin’s acquisition of RGM in 2023, the company says it has wanted to carry out exploration work in the area. This has so far not been possible because of security risks said to have arisen due to the presence of unauthorised miners.
Concerns over the use of chemicals
RGM is also concerned about reports that chemicals are being used in the mining activities. According to the company, such activities could potentially affect waterways, soil, ecosystems and the health of surrounding communities.
Which chemicals are actually being used and what the precise environmental consequences are must, according to RGM, be determined through on-site investigations, including sampling and laboratory tests by the competent authorities.
Request for investigation and intervention
The mining company says it has asked the government to coordinate inspections, evidence gathering and environmental investigations in the short term. It has also requested legal measures to end the unauthorised mining and prevent possible environmental risks from increasing further.
RGM says that, once safe access to the area is possible, it is prepared to provide available information and logistical support to the authorities. The company further states that it will comply with Surinamese laws and regulations and protect its rights in the exploration area through legal means.
