Authorities in Guyana have launched an investigation into the treatment of foreign workers at a mining operation in Region Seven, following allegations of poor working conditions and labour violations.

The Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning said it initiated the probe over the weekend after receiving reports concerning the welfare of foreign nationals employed by Ekaa Hrim Earth Resources in Batavia Village.

Labour Minister Keoma Griffith has since engaged the Acting High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Manoj Kumar, as part of efforts to address the situation involving 38 Indian workers attached to the company.

A meeting was subsequently held between ministry officials, the workers and the company’s management, allowing employees to raise concerns about their treatment.

Among the issues highlighted was the handling of workers’ passports. The ministry said the matter has since been resolved following its intervention, with the documents returned to the employees.

However, broader allegations remain under review, including claims of unfair treatment, poor working conditions and concerns about wages and general welfare.

The ministry has given the company 24 hours to respond to the allegations.

Officials also confirmed that reports surrounding the death of a worker on May 12 will form part of the ongoing investigation.

A joint team comprising officers from the labour ministry, the Guyana Police Force, and the Trafficking in Persons Unit under the Ministry of Home Affairs has been deployed to assess the situation and conduct further inquiries.

The ministry said it will continue to monitor developments and take the necessary steps to ensure compliance with the country’s labour laws.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.