Surinamese authorities are grappling with persistent illegal gold mining operations within the protected confines of Brownsberg Nature Park, acknowledging the complex challenge without immediate solutions. President Jennifer Simons addressed journalists during a Friday press conference, revealing that combating these activities proves particularly difficult as perpetrators “believe they are above the law.”
While recognizing that gold extraction will continue in the broader Brownsberg region, Simons emphasized that such operations must remain outside the park’s official boundaries. The government has scheduled comprehensive dialogues for the coming week involving multiple stakeholders, including various ministries, military and police representatives, the Nature Conservation Foundation Suriname (Stinasu), and non-governmental organizations.
This environmental crisis spans over two decades, with the President indicating the problem extends beyond mere gold extraction, though she refrained from identifying specific individuals or groups involved in these unlawful practices. Large-scale deforestation caused by both artisanal and industrial mining operations has significantly damaged the protected ecosystem.
Minister of Natural Resources David Abiamofo reported increased government presence in the area during November 6-10, resulting in the identification of illegal operators and confiscation of unauthorized equipment through coordinated efforts with local law enforcement. The minister advocates establishing a permanent settlement within the park to enhance security measures, with ongoing discussions currently underway with Stinasu and other relevant parties.
President Simons supports regulated gold mining outside protected areas while stressing the need for improved organization and increased state revenue generation from Brownsberg’s natural resources.