Brazilian Gold Miner Arrested in Guyana for Illegal Aircraft Interception
A Brazilian gold miner, Robistaine Peixoto Saraiva, was arrested in Guyana after law enforcement intercepted an illegal aircraft used for mining operations. The operation involved discovering an illegal airstrip and apprehending Saraiva after he attempted to flee from police. Investigations revealed their involvement in transporting mercury for gold mining activities, with further details expected to emerge as inquiries continue.
On Sunday, law enforcement in Guyana apprehended Robistaine Peixoto Saraiva, a 48-year-old Brazilian gold miner, following a joint operation conducted by the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit in Bashaizon Village, located in South Rupununi. The operation successfully intercepted a Cessna single-engine aircraft with registration number PU-MBN at an illegal airstrip situated approximately three miles from the village’s primary access route. Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose, the Commander of Regional Police Division 9, led the operation, which revealed a large illegal airstrip within the savannah area. Upon their arrival via all-terrain vehicles, police discovered the aircraft parked on the strip, which was aligned north to south. During the pursuit, Saraiva fell from a vehicle attempting to escape, while an accomplice, known only by the alias ‘Wallefi Kayck’, fled into Brazil amid warning shots fired by the authorities. In the course of his interrogation, Saraiva disclosed that he had chartered the aircraft from a Brazilian company and made a delivery of mercury to Venezuela, with intentions to procure more mercury in Guyana for gold mining activities. A thorough search of the aircraft yielded various electronic devices, including high-end smartphones and GPS equipment, as well as a motorbike concealed nearby. The operation commenced around 10:55 PM following intelligence received, and during the attempted apprehension, the getaway vehicle collided with the aircraft, damaging its structure. Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement acquiring substantial information from local residents regarding the incident.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in South America regarding illegal poaching and mining activities. Illegal airstrips have become common in remote areas due to the burgeoning illegal gold mining industry, which often involves hazardous materials like mercury. The interception of the aircraft suggests a concerted effort by Guyanese law enforcement to combat these operations, emphasizing international cooperation in addressing cross-border crime. The fact that the authorities were able to track and apprehend an individual involved in these illegal activities highlights the importance of information-sharing among law enforcement agencies.
The arrest of Robistaine Peixoto Saraiva highlights the ongoing struggle against illegal mining activities in Guyana, particularly those involving hazardous substances like mercury. This case serves as a reminder of the collaborative efforts required by law enforcement to address transnational crime effectively, as well as the persistent need for vigilance in protecting the country’s natural resources from exploitative practices.
Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com
