The TTPS says a multi-million-dollar processing operation was shut down following a joint intelligence-led exercise in Wallerfield last Thursday.

Eight persons were also charged for Processing Minerals without a Licence contrary to Section 45(1)(a) of the Minerals Act Chapter 61.03.

The exercise follows a directive from Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher, and the TTPS executive instructing the Multi Agency Task Force to conduct an all-government multi-level investigation into illegal mining and illegal processing of minerals.

On May 2nd 2024, officers unearthed a large-scale and highly modernised minerals processing plant.

They reportedly observed persons at the plant’s location on Moonan Road, Wallerfield operating a wash plant machine and heavy

equipment, while also engaged in other general site work.

A search warrant was executed at the site where several documents were seized.

Enquiries revealed they did not have a licence to operate.

Eight men, including a manager and acting supervisor, were arrested.

Robert Wilson, Reuben Maprangala, Ricky Joseph, Corey Charles, Deon George, Shastri Mahadeo, Kimal Williams, and Aluko Ato Warner were jointly charged with Processing

Minerals without a Licence contrary to Section 45(1)(a) of the Minerals Act Chapter 61.03.

They were each granted $75,000 bail by Justice of the Peace Abrahim Ali and will appear before the Arima Magistrates’ Court on June 5th 2024.

The TTPS says the exercise follows a similar operation conducted by the MATF on December 2nd 2023, in the Five Acres area of Vega de Oropouche, Sangre Grande.

On that occasion, four persons were arrested after being found illegally digging and removing material from State Lands.

They were subsequently charged with the offence and two CAT excavators valued at over six million dollars were seized.