Passports returned as Labour Ministry probes alleged abuse of foreign workers 

See below the full release from the Ministry of Labour: 

The Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning notes with serious concern allegations regarding the treatment of foreign workers employed at Ekaa Hrim Earth Resources in Batavia Village, Region Seven.

Acting on information received, the Ministry over the weekend launched an investigation into the alleged labour and occupational safety and health violations involving foreign nationals employed at the location.

Subsequent to the initial investigation, Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning, Hon. Keoma Griffith this morning engaged the Acting High Commissioner of India to Guyana, H.E. Manoj Kumar.

The engagement served as a precursor to a general meeting with the thirty-eight Indian Nationals, who are attached to the mining company. This meeting held between the Ministry, aggrieved workers, and management of Ekaa Hrim provided an opportunity for the workers’ complaints to be made.

The issue of passports was raised and as a result of the intervention made by Minister Griffith, that matter has already been rectified and the passports have been returned to the workers.

Allegations of poor working conditions and unfair treatment were leveled against the employer, and as such, the Ministry has given Ekaa Hrim a period of twenty-four hours to issue a response.

The Ministry’s investigation will continue and allegations relating to wages, working conditions, and the general welfare of the workers will be addressed. The Ministry is also aware of allegations concerning the reported death of a worker on May 12, 2026, which will form part of the ongoing investigation.

A joint team of officers from the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning, Guyana Police Force, Trafficking In Persons Unit under the Ministry of Home Affairs and other relevant authorities has been mobilised to conduct inquiries and assess the situation.

The Ministry is actively monitoring the matter and will continue to take all necessary steps to ensure compliance with the laws of Guyana. Further updates will be provided as investigations progress.