In a significant crackdown on illegal quarrying operations, Gregory Mc Burnie, identified by police as the ‘main boss’ of a multi-million dollar illegal quarrying empire, fell ill shortly after his arrest on October 9. Mc Burnie, along with 18 others, was apprehended during a raid by heavily armed police on an illegal quarrying plant in the forests of Manuel Congo, Guanapo. Following his arrest, Mc Burnie was permitted to seek medical treatment at a private hospital in north Trinidad, accompanied by a police escort, at his own expense. Police sources indicated that the illnesses were not serious, and Mc Burnie was discharged by 11 am on October 10. The arrests were part of a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies, with charges expected to be filed this weekend. At least three suspects are likely to face charges under section 45 of the Minerals Act, which prohibits the unlicensed processing of minerals. The penalties for such offenses include a $500,000 fine and five years imprisonment for first-time offenders, escalating to a $700,000 fine and seven years imprisonment for subsequent convictions. Additionally, individuals and companies involved in trading illegally obtained minerals are barred from bidding on government-funded construction projects. Police are expected to remain at the quarry site as they lack facilities to store the equipment and vehicles, which may serve as crucial evidence in the prosecution of the suspects.