SIPALIWINI – Acting on orders from the competent authorities, members of the Suriname Police Force and the National Army carried out a “Clean Sweep Operation” on Tuesday, August 4, in the concession area of Zijin, located in the Upper Saramacca area of Moeroekreek in the Sipaliwini District. The operation was led by the Central Region Commander.
With logistical and operational support from the multinational gold mining company Zijin, more than 200 illegal mining camps were dismantled, prompting several individuals to leave the area. Before the team took action, the illegal miners—despite having violated the Mining Act—were once again urged on Monday, August 3, through an audio message broadcast by drone, to immediately leave the concession area.
In addition, when the team arrived on August 4, 2026, the illegal miners were again instructed through the police Drone Unit to gather their personal belongings and voluntarily leave the area. They were explicitly reminded of the previous warnings and orders to vacate the concession area. Only a limited number of miners complied with the police call.
Although the units were confronted with threats, insults and other verbal provocations, the team acted professionally, calmly and tactfully. During the successful operation, no arrests or incidents were reported, and no items subject to seizure were found. The team will visit the area periodically to monitor the situation and ensure that law and order are maintained.
