Brazilian Gold Miner Arrested Following Illegal Aircraft Interception in Guyana

Robistaine Peixoto Saraiva, a Brazilian gold miner, was arrested after authorities intercepted an illegal Cessna aircraft in Bashaizon Village, Guyana. The operation revealed that Saraiva had supposedly chartered the aircraft to transport mercury for illegal gold mining, and investigations are ongoing to uncover more about his activities and connections in the region.

In a recent joint operation executed by the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit, a Brazilian gold miner, Robistaine Peixoto Saraiva, was arrested following the interception of an illegal aircraft in Bashaizon Village, South Rupununi. The operation, commanded by Senior Superintendent Raphael Rose, resulted in the seizure of a Cessna single-engine aircraft, identified by the registration number PU-MBN, at a makeshift airstrip approximately three miles from the village. Law enforcement officials reported that upon their arrival via all-terrain vehicle (ATV), they discovered a significant illegal airstrip marked prominently across the savannah. The aircraft was found parked on this strip, oriented northward. Following the interception, Saraiva, aged 48 and hailing from Boa Vista, Brazil, was apprehended after jumping from a fleeing vehicle. Another suspect, referred to only as ‘Wallefi Kayck,’ managed to escape across the Takutu River into Brazil despite the police discharging warning shots. Upon interrogation, Saraiva disclosed that he had chartered the aircraft the preceding Wednesday or Thursday and had flown it from Brazil to Venezuela, where they allegedly delivered ten cylinders of mercury, known colloquially as Quicksilver. He indicated their primary purpose in Guyana was to procure additional mercury from a Brazilian individual known only as ‘Mute’ for their gold mining endeavors in Brazil. A search of the aircraft yielded various electronic devices such as an iPhone 13 Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy smartphones, GPS units, and assorted personal items. Additionally, a concealed motorcycle of NK 150 CC was found in proximity to the airstrip. The arrest scenario unfolded at approximately 10:55 PM, following the collection of critical intelligence by law enforcement personnel stationed at Aishalton Police Station. During the arrest attempt, the getaway vehicle collided with the aircraft, resulting in damage to its wing and front propeller. Authorities have confirmed that investigations concerning this operation are ongoing, with several local individuals providing assistance and vital information.

The interception of illegal aircraft in Guyana, particularly involving Brazilian nationals engaged in gold mining operations, highlights ongoing issues related to illicit mining activities and the trafficking of hazardous materials like mercury. These operations often take place through makeshift airstrips set in remote areas, indicating a pattern where international criminal enterprises exploit vulnerabilities in the enforcement capabilities of local law enforcement agencies. The presence of police and customs collaborative operations aims to crack down on such unlawful activities, safeguarding both the environment and public safety.

The arrest of Robistaine Peixoto Saraiva signifies a critical action taken by Guyanese authorities against illegal mining operations and the illicit transport of hazardous materials like mercury. The ongoing investigation underscores a continued commitment to combating transnational crime and protecting environmental integrity in Guyana. Authorities remain vigilant in tracking down accomplices and dismantling networks that facilitate these illegal operations.

Original Source: caribbean.loopnews.com