Illegal Mining at Gold Ridge Costs Millions

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Minister of Mines Derek Manuari revealed that illegal mining at Gold Ridge generates up to USD $70,000 daily—amounting to SBD$10 million annually at its peak.

Manuari revealed that when responding to a question in Parliament by the Leader of Opposition, Hon. Matthew Wale, on what action has the government taken to eliminate illegal mining from within mining lease of Gold Ridge?

In detailing the figures, he added that this results in significant revenue losses for the government, Gold Ridge Mining Ltd, and landowners.

Manuari emphasized the need for a collective national effort to address the long-running issue, involving communities, national leaders, police, and his ministry.

Despite efforts by police and company security to remove illegal miners, success has been limited.

Manuari stressed that with the decline in logging, mining is now a vital source of national revenue.