Bus driver arrested after Police find suspected mercury in Region 9 – INews Guyana

2025-10-26 Newsfeed

Ranks of the Guyana Police Force in Regional Division #9 (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Friday conducted a routine stop-and-search exercise at the Corkwood Police Check Point, North Rupununi, during which a quantity of suspected mercury was discovered concealed inside two solar batteries.

During the operation, ranks stopped a minibus and carried out routine checks. The vehicle was driven by a 47-year-old male of Windmill Road, Lethem, Central Rupununi, with four passengers on board.

While nothing illegal was found on the occupants or in their luggage, a search of the vehicle revealed two black and green solar batteries in the trunk area. Upon closer examination, four grey cylinders suspected to contain mercury were found concealed inside the batteries.

The driver was arrested and taken to the Lethem Police Station, where he is assisting investigators. The suspected mercury and the vehicle have been lodged as exhibits.

Investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the Police Force is reminding the public that mercury is a highly toxic substance and its possession, transport or use is restricted under Guyana’s environmental and mining laws.

“Unauthorised handling of mercury poses serious health and environmental risks. The Guyana Police Force continues to work with relevant agencies to prevent the illegal movement and use of hazardous materials across the country,” the GPF said today.