Guyana Ministry warns of scrap-metal trade shutdown after copper theft

Guyana’s Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce has issued a stern warning to the scrap-metal industry following the theft of approximately $1.6 million in copper cable from the Demerara River Bridge.

The Ministry clarified that the individuals involved in the recent incident were not licensed scrap-metal dealers. One individual currently on bail for the purchase of the stolen copper is identified as a repeat offender who was involved in a similar incident earlier this year.

Licensed dealers have been placed on notice that there is zero tolerance for facilitating the purchase, sale, or movement of illegally obtained copper. Any dealer found engaging in such activities faces immediate license cancellation and potential prosecution. The Ministry stated that if illegal practices continue, it may take steps to cancel the scrap-metal trade altogether to prevent the ongoing destruction of public infrastructure and private property.