Authorities are currently searching for four masked, armed suspects following a violent robbery at two mining camps in Sewanda Backdam that resulted in the loss of over G$44 million in cash, gold, and valuables.
The incident occurred on Monday, June 15, 2026, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The perpetrators, reportedly armed with firearms, targeted two separate mining operations located approximately 200 metres apart.
First Operation: The suspects initially targeted the camp of a 44-year-old Brazilian miner. After holding the workers at gunpoint and forcing them to complete a wash-down, the bandits escaped with 15 ounces of raw gold, G$150,000 in cash, and a red ATV. The total value of these items is estimated at G$15.4 million.
Second Operation: The gang then moved to a nearby camp owned by a 50-year-old Brazilian national. They subjected the miners to a similar process, forcing a wash-down before fleeing with 30 ounces of raw gold, high-value gold jewelry, a second red ATV, G$300,000 in cash, and various supplies, including clothing, groceries, and internet equipment. The total value stolen from this site was approximately G$29.3 million.
During the robbery at the second camp, the 50-year-old owner was physically assaulted and sustained injuries. Following the spree, the suspects fled the area, taking a significant quantity of assets with them.
Law enforcement officials have since conducted follow-up operations and successfully recovered both stolen ATVs, which had been abandoned near the Puruni River.
The suspects remain at large, and police are actively continuing their investigation into the coordinated attack.
