7 arrested, guns seized in connection with land mining dispute

Last Updated on Sunday, 5 October 2025, 21:22 by Denis Chabrol

Seven persons have been arrested and a number of firearms seized in connection with two separate incidents linked to a land mining dispute in Toroparu in Region 7 (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), police said.

Police also said steps have been taken by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to diffuse the situation.

“To mitigate further conflict and ensure order, a joint operational team consisting of police led by an inspector and police ranks, and officers from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission is on the location monitoring the situation,” police said in a statement.

Those arrested in connection with the two incidents on September 23 and 30 are Mitchell Watson, rangers Marvis Hillman and Edson Carter, security agent Leon Wilkinson, security guard Randy Allen, Juleth George (GM Alphonso Mining) and operator William Hill.

Investigators were told that the initial altercation on September 23, captured on video and featuring the voice of Mr Watson, involved personnel affiliated to Mr Alphonso and a group comprising rangers Hillman and Carter.

“This encounter is reported to have escalated to the alleged discharge of firearms by Alphonso’s security team.,” police added.

Police said a subsequent incident one week later on September 30 also documented on video, featured security agent Mr Wilkinson as the primary speaker, Mr Carter, Mr Allen speaking with Ms George and Mr Hill, indicating a continuation of the unresolved tensions between the involved parties.